bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Susceptibility analysis of landslide in Chittagong City Corporation Area, Bangladesh
Authors: Das Sourav , Raja Debasish Roy
Published: June 2015

In Chittagong city, landslide phenomena is the most burning issue which causes great problems to the life and properties and it is increasing day by day and becoming one of the main problems of city life. On 11 June 2007, a massive landslide happened in Chittagong City Corporation (CCC) area, a large number of foothill settlements and slums were demolished; more than 90 people died and huge resource destruction took place. It is therefore essential to analyze the landslide susceptibility for CCC area to prepare mitigation strategies as well as assessing the impacts of climate change. To assess community susceptibility of landslide hazard, a landslide susceptibility index map has been prepared using analytical hierarchy process (AHP) model based on geographic information system (GIS) and remote sensing (RS) and its susceptibility is analyzed through community vulnerability assessment tool (CVAT). The major findings of the research are 27% of total CCC area which is susceptible to landslide hazard and whereas 6.5 sq.km areas are found very highly susceptible. The landslide susceptible areas of CCC have also been analyzed in respect of physical, social, economic, environmental and critical facilities and it is found that the overall CCC area is highly susceptible to landslide hazard. So the findings of the research can be utilized to prioritize risk mitigation investments, measures to strengthen the emergency preparedness and response mechanisms for reducing the losses and damages due to future landslide events. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v4i2.12635 International Journal of Environment Vol.4(2) 2015: 157-181
Effect of sowing date and plant density on bolting of four sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) varieties
Authors: Al-Jbawi Entessar , Sabsabi Waeel , Gharibo Gharibo , Al-Sayed Omar Abd El-Muhsien
Published: June 2015

This experiment was conducted in Homs Agricultural Research Station, Homs, Syria during 2007/2008 and 2008/2009 seasons to study the effect of sowing date and plant density on bolting for four sugar beet varieties, tow are monogerm varieties i.e. Parade and Etna, while the other are multigerm varieties i.e. Nadir and Mammoth. Three sowing dates were applied, began from 15/9 to 15/10, the interval between the sowing dates was 15 days. Three plant densities were executed (133 000, 100 000 and 80 000 plantha-1). Split plot design was used with three replicates. The combined analysis exhibited the significant effect of varieties (V), sowing dates (S), and plant densities (D) on all types of bolting (Early, medium, late and total). Least significant test (L.S.D 0.05) clarified that early autumn sowing (15/9 and 1/10) increased total bolting percent 74.86 and 44.88 % respectively, as compared with date (15/10) 15.57% (control). The plant density (133 000 plant ha-1) decreased total bolting percent 43.56% as compared with the other plant densities (80 000 and 100 000 plant ha-1) 46.35 and 45.40% respectively. The results showed that the monogerm varieties were superior and more resistant to bolting as compared with the multigerm ones. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v4i2.12647 International Journal of Environment Vol.4(2) 2015: 256-270
Performance analysis of spring wheat genotypes under rain-fed conditions in warm humid environment of Nepal
Authors: Puri Ramesh Raj , Gautam Nutan Raj
Published: June 2015

Around 25% of total wheat area in Terai of Nepal falls under rain-fed and partially irrigated condition. A Coordinated varietal trial (CVT) was conducted during two consecutive crop cycles (2011-12 and 2012-13) under timely sown rain-fed conditions of Terai. The trial was conducted in Alpha Lattice design with two replications at Nepal Agricultural Research Council, National Wheat Research Program, Bhairahawa and Nepal Agricultural Research Council, Regional Agriculture Research Station, Nepalgunj. Observations were recorded for yield and yield traits and analyzed using statistical software Cropstat 7.2.The combined analysis of coordinated varietal trial showed that BL 3978 possessed the highest yield (2469.2 Kg ha-1) followed by NL 1097 (2373.2 Kg ha-1) and NL 1094 (2334.06 Kg ha-1). Genotype x Environment interaction for grain yield was significant (p<0.05) over locations and years. BL 3978 with early maturity (111 days) escaped the heat stress environment. Among the top three genotypes, BL 3978 was consistently higher in both favorable and unfavorable conditions. Earliness was one of the major traits for heat tolerant genotypes. The three identified genotypes will be further evaluated in participatory varietal selection or coordinated farmers field trial followed by small plot seed multiplication (seed increase) and release in the future for timely sown rain-fed conditions. These lines also appear suitable for inclusion in crossing program targeted for water stress tolerance variety development. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v4i2.12649 International Journal of Environment Vol.4(2) 2015: 289-295
Plant diversity and carbon stock in sacred groves of semi-arid areas of Cameroon: case study of Mandara Mountains
Authors: Kemeuze VA , Mapongmetsem PM , Sonwa DJ , Fongnzossie E , Nkongmeneck BA
Published: June 2015

The Mandara Mountain eco-region is one of the most important mountain areas of Cameroon. It is often considered as a refuge for several plant and wildlife species. This area is fragile and vulnerable, and faces severe threats from land use change, unsustainable exploitation of natural resources, desertification and climate change. Recent studies in sacred groves portrayed these land use types as indigenous strategies which can help to address these environmental problems. Understanding the plant diversity and carbon storage of these land use types in Mandara Mountain can be a good step towards their sustainable management for the delivery of diverse ecosystem services. In this perspective, we established a total of 10 nested circular plots of 1257 m2 each, in the sacred grove of the Mouhour village in Mandara Mountain, and all trees and shrubs with average diameter at breast height (dbh) ≥ 2.5 cm were counted. Tree biomass was estimated on the basis of DBH and understory biomass using destructive method. A total of 182 woody plants were measured, belonging to 21 species, 18 genera and 12 families. The richest family is Combretaceae with 5 species, followed by Caesalpiniaceae and Mimosaceae (3 species each). The analysis of species diversity indexes shows a relative important biodiversity and the vegetation structure showed a high occurrence of small-diameter of plant species. Mean aboveground carbon stock of 31.13 ± 10.8 tC/ha was obtained in the study area. Isoberlinia doka showed the greatest carbon stock (5.7 tC/ha) followed by Boswellia dalzielii (3.9 tC/ha), Acacia senegal (3.5 tC/ha), Anogeissus leiocarpus (3.3 tC/ha) and Terminalia laxiflora (3.1 tC/ha). These results suggest that the sacred groves of Cameroon dry lands need to be taken into account in national environment protection policies as an alternative to respond to international agreements related to biodiversity conservation, combatting desertification and climate change. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v4i2.12659 International Journal of Environment Vol.4(2) 2015: 308-318
Selection of inorganic-based fertilizers in forward osmosis for water desalination
Authors: Mishra Tripti , Srivastava RK
Published: June 2015

The current study aims at the selection of an appropriate draw solute for forward osmosis process. Separation and recovery of the draw solute are the major criteria for the selection of draw solute for forward osmosis process. Therefore in this investigation six inorganic fertilizers draws solute were selected. The selections of inorganic fertilizers as draw solute eliminate the need of removal and recovery of draw solute from the final product. The final product water of forward osmosis process has direct application in agricultural as nutrient rich water for irrigation. These inorganic fertilizers were tested based on their water extraction (water flux) capacity. This experimental water flux was compared with the observed water flux. It was noted that the observed water flux is much higher than the attained experimental water flux. The difference of these two fluxes was used to calculate the performance ratio of each selected fertilizer. Highest performance ratio was shown by low molecular weight compound ammonium nitrate (22.73) and potassium chloride (21.03) at 1 M concentration, whereas diammonium phosphate (DAP) which has highest molecular weight among all the selected fertilizer show the lowest performance ratio (10.02) at 2 M concentration. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v4i2.12660 International Journal of Environment Vol.4(2) 2015: 319-329
Genetic potential and heritability estimates of yield and yield associated traits in rape seed Brassica napus L
Authors: Shaukat Sadia , Raziuddin Dr , Khan Fahim Ullah , Khalil Ibni Amin
Published: June 2015

To investigate genetic variability and heritability, eight Brassica napus genotypes were evaluated at New Developmental Research Farm, Faculty of Agriculture. Peshawar University, during 2010-11. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences (P≤0.01) among Brassica napus genotypes for all the studied characters. Mean values showed that maximum primary branches plant-1 (15) was observed for genotype PGRI-8, plant height (220.66 cm) for genotype CH-6 and PGRI-8, pods main raceme-1 (96.33) for genotype CH-1, pods plant-1 (994) for genotype PGRI- 8, pod length (8.3 cm) for genotype PGRI- 7, seeds pod-1 (27) for genotype CH-1, 1000-seed weight (3.97 g) for genotype CH-2, and seed yield plant-1 (91.1 g) for genotype PGRI-8. In t terms of heritability values, high broad sense heritability estimates were observed for primary branches plant-1 (0.83), plant height (0.78), pods main raceme-1 (0.65), seeds pod-1 (0.61), 1000-seed weight (0.61), while moderate heritability values were recorded for pod length (0.57), pods plant-1 (0.55), and seed yield plant-1 (0.50). In conclusion, the significant differences among Brassica napus genotypes showed that there is sufficient variability for effective selection. The trend of heritability (moderate to high) in the present study indicates that there is more genetic control and selection should lead to quick improvement. Furthermore genotype PGRI-8 surpassed all other genotypes in yield and yield component and could be used in future breeding programs. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v4i2.12661 International Journal of Environment Vol.4(2) 2015: 330-340
A review of IJE papers: (Vol. 3, Iss. 3 & 4)
Authors: Rao Ajith , Punati Naveen
Published: June 2015

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v4i2.12666 International Journal of Environment Vol.4(2) 2015: 394-412
The Language Question in Contemporary Germany: The Challenges of Multilingualism
Authors: Stevenson Patrick
Published: June 2015

This article addresses the complex relationships between political discourses, demographic constellations, the affordances of new technologies, and linguistic practices in contemporary Germany. It focuses on political and personal responses to the increasingly multilingual nature of German society and the often-conflicting ways in which “the German language” figures in strategies promoting social integration and Germany's global position. In order to do this, the idea of “the German language” is contextualized in relation to both internal and external processes of contemporary social change. On the one hand, changes to the social order arising from the increasingly complex patterns of inward migration have led to conflicts between a persistent monolingual ideology and multilingual realities. On the other hand, changes in the global context and the explosive growth of new social media have resulted in both challenges and new opportunities for the German language in international communication. In this context, the article explores internal and external policy responses, for example, in relation to education and citizenship in Germany, and the embedding of German language campaigns in strategies promoting multilingualism; and impacts on individual linguistic practices and behaviors, such as the emergence of “multiethnolects” and online multilingualism.
Load-Dependent Interference of Deep Brain Stimulation of the Subthalamic Nucleus with Switching from Automatic to Controlled Processing During Random Number Generation in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Williams Isobel Anne , Wilkinson Leonora , Limousin Patricia , Jahanshahi Marjan
Published: June 2015

Background: Deep brain stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus (STN DBS) ameliorates the motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, some aspects of executive control are impaired with STN DBS.

Objective: We tested the prediction that (i) STN DBS interferes with switching from automatic to controlled processing during fast-paced random number generation (RNG) (ii) STN DBS-induced cognitive control changes are load-dependent.

Methods: Fifteen PD patients with bilateral STN DBS performed paced-RNG, under three levels of cognitive load synchronised with a pacing stimulus presented at 1, 0.5 and 0.33 Hz (faster rates require greater cognitive control), with DBS on or off. Measures of output randomness were calculated. Countscore 1 (CS1) indicates habitual counting in steps of one (CS1). Countscore 2 (CS2) indicates a more controlled strategy of counting in twos.

Results: The fastest rate was associated with an increased CS1 score with STN DBS on compared to off. At the slowest rate, patients had higher CS2 scores with DBS off than on, such that the differences between CS1 and CS2 scores disappeared.

Conclusions: We provide evidence for a load-dependent effect of STN DBS on paced RNG in PD. Patients could switch to more controlled RNG strategies during conditions of low cognitive load at slower rates only when the STN stimulators were off, but when STN stimulation was on, they engaged in more automatic habitual counting under increased cognitive load. These findings are consistent with the proposal that the STN implements a switch signal from the medial frontal cortex which enables a shift from automatic to controlled processing.
Speech Prosody Across Stimulus Types for Individuals with Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Ma Joan K.-Y. , Schneider Christine B. , Hoffmann Rüdiger , Storch Alexander
Published: June 2015

Background:

Up to 89% of the individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD) experience speech problem over the course of the disease. Speech prosody and intelligibility are two of the most affected areas in hypokinetic dysarthria. However, assessment of these areas could potentially be problematic as speech prosody and intelligibility could be affected by the type of speech materials employed.

Objective:

To comparatively explore the effects of different types of speech stimulus on speech prosody and intelligibility in PD speakers.

Methods:

Speech prosody and intelligibility of two groups of individuals with varying degree of dysarthria resulting from PD was compared to that of a group of control speakers using sentence reading, passage reading and monologue. Acoustic analysis including measures on fundamental frequency (F0), intensity and speech rate was used to form a prosodic profile for each individual. Speech intelligibility was measured for the speakers with dysarthria using direct magnitude estimation.

Results:

Difference in F0 variability between the speakers with dysarthria and control speakers was only observed in sentence reading task. Difference in the average intensity level was observed for speakers with mild dysarthria to that of the control speakers. Additionally, there were stimulus effect on both intelligibility and prosodic profile.

Conclusions:

The prosodic profile of PD speakers was different from that of the control speakers in the more structured task, and lower intelligibility was found in less structured task. This highlighted the value of both structured and natural stimulus to evaluate speech production in PD speakers.
Narrative Discourse Cohesion in Early Stage Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Ellis Charles , Crosson Bruce , Gonzalez Rothi Leslie J. , Okun Michael S. , Rosenbek John C.
Published: June 2015

Background:

Models of basal ganglia (BG) function suggest that expressive language deficits will likely and consistently present in BG disease. Disparities currently exist between the predictions of models of BG function in expressive language and data from studies of BG disease. Traditional expressive language assessment methodologies that emphasize measures of language form (word and sentence productivity) while not carefully considering how language is used, may only partially account for these disparities.

Objective:

To use measures of cohesion to examine the use of cohesive markers in narrative discourse.

Methods:

Twelve individuals with idiopathic Parkinson’s disease (PD) were compared to 12 matched neurologically intact controls on measures of discourse performance. Three discourse samples (typical day, memorable vacation and family) were analyzed for measures of narrative productivity, number of cohesive ties and cohesive adequacy. Mixed model analyses were completed for group comparisons.

Results:

Group differences were not observed on measures of language form as measured by narrative productivity, communication units, and number of cohesive ties produced. In contrast, group differences were observed in cohesive adequacy as individuals with PD produced a higher percentage of incomplete and erroneous cohesive ties relative the control subjects across narratives.

Conclusions:

These results support the conclusion that the BG in PD may have an executive role in expressive language use that can be disrupted without impacting language form.
Specific Attentional Disorders and Freezing of Gait in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Tard Céline , Delval Arnaud , Duhamel Alain , Moreau Caroline , Devos David , Defebvre Luc , Dujardin Kathy
Published: June 2015

Background:

Due to its high prevalence in dual-task paradigms, freezing of gait in Parkinson’s disease is thought to be associated with dysexecutive syndrome and attentional disorders. However, the role of specific attentional disorders in patients with freezing of gait is still unclear.

Objective:

Here, we sought to specifically determine which basic attentional modalities are impaired in patients with freezing of gait.

Methods:

Seventy-eight parkinsonian patients performed a computer-controlled reaction-time paradigm designed to measure the different attentional subcomponents, controlled for visuospatial processing and motor participation.

Results:

The freezer ( n = 42) and non-freezer ( n = 36) groups were matched for age, educational level, MMSE and Mattis Dementia Rating Scale. There were no intergroup differences in simple reaction times, whereas choice reaction times were higher in the freezer group than in the non-freezer group for divided attention ( p = 0.023).

Conclusions:

At equivalent levels of overall cognitive efficiency, freezer patients showed a greater slowdown than non-freezer patients with a specific impairment in divided attention.
Parkinson’s Disease Subtypes in the Oxford Parkinson Disease Centre (OPDC) Discovery Cohort
Authors: Lawton Michael , Baig Fahd , Rolinski Michal , Ruffman Claudio , Nithi Kannan , May Margaret T. , Ben-Shlomo Yoav , Hu Michele T.M.
Published: June 2015

Background:

Within Parkinson’s there is a spectrum of clinical features at presentation which may represent sub-types of the disease. However there is no widely accepted consensus of how best to group patients.

Objective:

Use a data-driven approach to unravel any heterogeneity in the Parkinson’s phenotype in a well-characterised, population-based incidence cohort.

Methods:

769 consecutive patients, with mean disease duration of 1.3 years, were assessed using a broad range of motor, cognitive and non-motor metrics. Multiple imputation was carried out using the chained equations approach to deal with missing data. We used an exploratory and then a confirmatory factor analysis to determine suitable domains to include within our cluster analysis. K-means cluster analysis of the factor scores and all the variables not loading into a factor was used to determine phenotypic subgroups.

Results:

Our factor analysis found three important factors that were characterised by: psychological well-being features; non-tremor motor features, such as posture and rigidity; and cognitive features. Our subsequent five cluster model identified groups characterised by (1) mild motor and non-motor disease (25.4%), (2) poor posture and cognition (23.3%), (3) severe tremor (20.8%), (4) poor psychological well-being, RBD and sleep (18.9%), and (5) severe motor and non-motor disease with poor psychological well-being (11.7%).

Conclusion:

Our approach identified several Parkinson’s phenotypic sub-groups driven by largely dopaminergic-resistant features (RBD, impaired cognition and posture, poor psychological well-being) that, in addition to dopaminergic-responsive motor features may be important for studying the aetiology, progression, and medication response of early Parkinson’s.
Concerns About Falling in Parkinson’s Disease: Associations with Disabilities and Personal and Environmental Factors
Authors: Jonasson Stina B. , Ullén Susann , Iwarsson Susanne , Lexell Jan , Nilsson Maria H.
Published: June 2015

Background:

Fear of falling can be conceptualized in different ways, e.g., as concerns about falling or low fall-related self-efficacy. It is common in people with Parkinson’s disease (PD), and there is growing knowledge about its contributing factors. However, previous multivariate studies have mainly focused on fear of falling in relation to PD-related disabilities, and less is known about the associations between fear of falling and personal and environmental factors.

Objective:

To identify explanatory factors of concerns about falling in people with PD by focusing on personal and environmental factors as well as PD-related disabilities.

Methods:

Data were collected from 241 persons with PD (39% women, median age 70 years, PD duration 8 years). Concerns about falling (assessed with the Falls Efficacy Scale-International, FES-I; categorized into low, moderate, or high concerns) were used as the dependent variable in a multivariate ordinal regression analysis. Personal factors, environmental factors and PD-related disabilities constituted independent variables.

Results:

Low, moderate and high concerns about falling were reported by 29% , 24% and 47% of the participants, respectively. Walking difficulties, orthostatism, motor symptoms, age, and fatigue (presented in order of importance) were significant ( p <  0.05) explanatory factors of concerns about falling.

Conclusions:

Several factors significantly explained concerns about falling in people with PD. Walking difficulties was by far the strongest explanatory factor. This suggests that minimizing walking difficulties should be a primary target when aiming at reducing concerns about falling in people with PD.
Linking Smoking, Coffee, Urate, and Parkinson’s Disease – A Role for Gut Microbiota?
Authors: Scheperjans Filip , Pekkonen Eero , Kaakkola Seppo , Auvinen Petri
Published: June 2015

While the etiology and pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD) is still obscure, there is evidence for lifestyle factors influencing disease risk. Best established are the inverse associations with smoking and coffee consumption. In other contexts there is evidence that health effects of lifestyle factors may depend on gut microbiome composition. Considering the gastrointestinal involvement in PD, it was recently speculated, that the associations between smoking, coffee, and PD risk could be mediated by gut microbiota. Here we review such a possible mediatory role of gut microbiota taking into account recent findings on microbiome composition in PD and extending the scope also to urate.
Melatonin improves diabetes-induced foetal growth retardation in rats
Authors: Olayaki LA , Soladoye AO , Ojo OO
Published: June 2015

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of oral melatonin administration on foetal growth retardation, utero-placental antioxidant enzymes activities and lipid peroxidation in experimental diabetic rats. Twenty pregnant rats were divided into four groups of five rats each. Diabetes mellitus was induced by a single intraperitoneal administration of 120mg/kg body weight of alloxan. From gestational day 5 to 19, 5mg/kg and 10mg/kg of oral melatonin were administered to the rats with clearly manifested gestational diabetes. On the 19th day of gestation, the rats were sacrificed by cervical dislocation and placental, foetal and uterine tissues were harvested for estimation of tissue glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Foetal weight, foetal size, placental and plasma glucose were also determined. Results showed that, in diabetic rats, foetal growth retardation was associated with a significant reduction in placental and uterine antioxidant enzymes (GPx) activities (P<0.001) and increased lipid peroxidation as evidenced by raised MDA concentration (P< 0.05). Treatment with oral melatonin significantly improved the foetal weight, placental and uterine antioxidant enzymes activities as well as reduced lipid peroxidation, without affecting the degree of hyperglycaemia. Effects of melatonin on foetal growth are presumed to be dependent on its ability to improve uteroplacental antioxidant enzymes activities and reduce lipid peroxidation.Bangladesh Pharmaceutical Journal 18(1): 42-47, 2015
Comparative studies of hydration behaviour and density of Pyrrolidone K-30, PEG 6000 and PEG 20000
Authors: Sultana Sakina , Ohidullah Md , Saifuddin AHM , Hossain Md Saddam
Published: June 2015

A comparative study was conducted on aqueous solutions of Pyrrolidone K-30 and Polyethylene glycols of molecular weight 6000 and 20000, respectively for investigating their hydration behaviour in terms of intrinsic viscosity and density. In the study, Pyrrolidone K-30 exhibited the intrinsic viscosity of ~14 g/ml, while PEG 6000 and PEG 20000 revealed the intrinsic viscosities of 18 g/ml and 28 g/ml, respectively at a room temperature of 298 ± 1º K. Thus, among these three compounds PEG 20000 exhibited the highest intrinsic viscosity which was interesting. In density measurement this compound showed a non-linear trend of change in density as concentration was varied. Such results were opposite to that observed with the remaining two compounds.Bangladesh Pharmaceutical Journal 18(1): 48-52, 2015
Exploration of antibacterial metabolites producing marine bacteria from Sundarbans, Bangladesh
Authors: Sarker Ashish Kumar , Haque Md Anwarul , Islam Mohammad Sayful , Rahman Md Ajijur , Islam Md Anwar Ul
Published: June 2015

To combat the increasing numbers of antibiotic resistant strains of pathogenic bacteria new source of antibacterial agents are desperately needed. This study was aimed to discover new marine bacteria having antibacterial activity from marine soil samples of Sundarbans, Bangladesh. Using starch-casein-nitrate-agar medium thirty nine marine bacteria colonies were isolated as pure isolates from nine marine soil samples. Each of the isolates was preserved in both short term and long term basis. Based on the aerial and substrate mycelia color of the isolates they were grouped into five color series and were screened for their antibacterial activity against a series of test bacteria. Among thirty nine pure isolates twenty four isolates (61.5%) exhibited moderate to high activity against three grampositive and four gram-negative bacteria. This is due to the antibacterial metabolites secreted in the medium by most of the isolates. It suggested that Sundarbans may be an interesting, valuable and potential source for the exploration of novel marine bacteria with the potential to yield useful new antibacterial secondary metabolites of pharmaceutical interest.Bangladesh Pharmaceutical Journal 18(1): 53-60, 2015
The significance of non-controlled natural light, temperature and humidity in the commercial micropropagation of Solanum tuberosum L. Cultivar Diamant
Authors: Arias FJ Zapata , Akter Shahana , Haque SM Asadul , Akther Shilpi , Khatun Firoza , Mazid Md A , Hossain Mahabub
Published: June 2015

The aim of our study was to reduce the unit cost of in vitro micropropagation of the Solanum tuberosum cultivar Diamant widely cultivated in Bangladesh with the guarantee that the quality and quantity of the in vitro plants produced was not jeopardized. This was done by entirely replacing the conventional micropropagation conditions of maintaining the in vitro plants in a controlled room whose temperature varies between 25 and 30°C, its humidity between 60 to 70% and its light intensity of 20,238 to 20,409 for 19 hours; with a room whose roof was made of corrugated plastic sheets that allow a partial passage of natural light. Under this conditions the amount of light, temperature and humidity were not controlled. During the time work the temperatures in this non-conventional room fluctuate between 14 and 40°C, the light intensities were between 20,017 to 20,687 Lux and the humidity between 40 to 90%. Experiments were initiated in May, 2009 through March, 2014 covering summer, rainy and winter seasons. After two years of laboratory research and two years of field studies, we have not found differences between yield production of the micropropagated plants grown under control and non-controlled conditions, very often the latter plants were robust and adapted faster when transfer to field conditions. All plants used in the field experiments were no more than seven in vitro passages. A RBCD yield trail of the plants was done during two seasons and it was no found any difference in yield between them. Moreover, a yield trail of the minitubers to produce breeder seed (second generation) was done during the season 2013-2014 and no differences were found between the controls and the tubers derived from the low cost.

Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 24(2): 131-139, 2014 (December)
Rapid in vitro shoot regeneration of Valeriana officinalis
Authors: Tansaz Minoo , Zamani Akram , Otroshy Mahmoud
Published: June 2015

A protocol for efficient and rapid regeneration of medicinal plant (Valeriana officinalis L.) was developed by in vitro culture of crown division. The effect of three different culture media, MS, B5 and MB (a new combined medium) containing 12 combinations of BAP and NAA was evaluated on regeneration and growth parameters. Results revealed a significant response of media used for shoot regeneration. The best frequency of regenerated plantlets (80%) and number of regenerated shoots (9.43) were obtained on MB containing BAP (0.5 mg/l) + (0.25 mg/l). The maximum length of shoots was found in the MB with BAP (1 mg/l) + (0.5 mg/l). A positive influence of time was noticed on rooting of regenerated shoots. All acclimatized plantletswere successfully established in a greenhouse and showed normal growth. This protocol provides a technique for mass propagation of valerian and helpful for future genetic improvement studies.Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 24(2): 263-271, 2014 (December)
Model Equivalence-Based Identification Algorithm for Equation-Error Systems with Colored Noise
Authors: Meng Dandan , Ding Feng
Published: June 2015

For equation-error autoregressive (EEAR) systems, this paper proposes an identification algorithm by means of the model equivalence transformation. The basic idea is to eliminate the autoregressive term in the model using the model transformation, to estimate the parameters of the converted system and further to compute the parameter estimates of the original system using the comparative coefficient way and the model equivalence principle. For comparison, the recursive generalized least squares algorithm is given simply. The simulation results verify that the proposed algorithm is effective and can produce more accurate parameter estimates.
Monoacylated Cellular Prion Proteins Reduce Amyloid-β-Induced Activation of Cytoplasmic Phospholipase A2 and Synapse Damage
Authors: West Ewan , Osborne Craig , Nolan William , Bate Clive
Published: June 2015

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by the accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) and the loss of synapses. Aggregation of the cellular prion protein (PrPC) by Aβ oligomers induced synapse damage in cultured neurons. PrPC is attached to membranes via a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor, the composition of which affects protein targeting and cell signaling. Monoacylated PrPC incorporated into neurons bound “natural Aβ”, sequestering Aβ outside lipid rafts and preventing its accumulation at synapses. The presence of monoacylated PrPC reduced the Aβ-induced activation of cytoplasmic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) and Aβ-induced synapse damage. This protective effect was stimulus specific, as treated neurons remained sensitive to α-synuclein, a protein associated with synapse damage in Parkinson’s disease. In synaptosomes, the aggregation of PrPC by Aβ oligomers triggered the formation of a signaling complex containing the cPLA2.a process, disrupted by monoacylated PrPC. We propose that monoacylated PrPC acts as a molecular sponge, binding Aβ oligomers at the neuronal perikarya without activating cPLA2 or triggering synapse damage.
Transcriptome Survey of a Marine Food Fish: Asian Seabass (Lates calcarifer)
Authors: Thevasagayam Natascha , Sridatta Prakki , Jiang Junhui , Tong Amy , Saju Jolly , Kathiresan Purushothaman , Kwan Hsiao , Ngoh Si , Liew Woei , Kuznetsova Inna , Shen Xueyan , Lok Si , Vij Shubha , Orbán László
Published: June 2015

The Asian seabass (or barramundi; Lates calcarifer) is a marine teleost and a popular food fish in Southeast Asia and Australia. To date, comprehensive genome and transcriptome sequence information has not been available for this species in public repositories. Here, we report a comprehensive de novo transcriptome assembly of the Asian seabass. These data will be useful for the development of molecular tools for use in aquaculture of Asian seabass as well as a resource for genome annotation. The transcriptome was obtained from sequences generated from organs of multiple individuals using three different next-generation sequencing platforms (454-FLX Titanium, SOLiD 3+, and paired-end Illumina HiSeq 2000). The assembled transcriptome contains >80% of the expected protein-coding loci, with 58% of these represented by a predicted full-length cDNA sequence when compared to the available Nile tilapia RefSeq dataset. Detailed descriptions of the various steps involved in sequencing and assembling a transcriptome are provided to serve as a helpful guide for transcriptome projects involving de novo assembly of short sequence reads for non-model teleosts or any species of interest.
Cytotoxic Effects of Vicicitus globosus (Class Dictyochophyceae) and Chattonella marina (Class Raphidophyceae) on Rotifers and Other Microalgae
Authors: Chang Fook
Published: June 2015

Cultures of Vicicitus globosus (previously Chattonella globosa) and Chattonella marina, established during the 2010 fish kill event in Mahanga Bay, Wellington Harbour, are confirmed to be cytotoxic. The aggregate potency of lipophilic cell extracts of each species were evaluated using three species each of flagellates, dinoflagellates and diatoms, and a rotifer as test organisms. The cell extract of V. globosus destroyed cells of all nine microalgae in a matter of a few minutes to less than 15 min, while that of C. marina, destroyed all species over 10 to 30 min. The lipophilic extract of V. globosus caused partial disintegration of both theca wall and cytoplasm of cells of Alexandrium catenella in a matter of minutes. This effect, however, was not observed in cells of A. catenella exposed to that of C. marina. Tests conducted on rotifers showed similar fast-acting trends, with animals exposed to a cell extract of V. globosus died in a much shorter time (Lt50 = 80 min) than those exposed to that of C. marina (20 h).
Mechanical Retention and Waterproof Properties of Bacterial Cellulose-Reinforced Thermoplastic Starch Biocomposites Modified with Sodium Hexametaphosphate
Authors: Wang Da-wei , Xu Ying-juan , Li Xin , Huang Chao-ming , Huang Kuo-shien , Wang Chuen-kai , Yeh Jen-taut
Published: June 2015

The waterproof and strength retention properties of bacterial cellulose (BC)-reinforced thermoplastic starch (TPS) resins were successfully improved by reacting with sodium hexametaphosphate (SHMP). After modification with SHMP, the tensile strength (σf) and impact strength (Is) values of initial and conditioned BC-reinforced TPS, modified with varying amounts of SHMP(TPS100BC0.02SHMPx), and their blends with poly(lactic acid)((TPS100BC0.02SHMPx)75PLA25) specimens improved significantly and reached a maximal value as SHMP content approached 10 parts per hundred parts of TPS resin (phr), while their moisture content and elongation at break (ɛf) was reduced to a minimal value as SHMP contents approached 10 phr. The σf, Is and ɛf retention values of a (TPS100BC0.02SHMP10)75PLA25 specimen conditioned for 56 days are 52%, 50% and 3 times its initial σf, Is and ɛf values, respectively, which are 32.5 times, 8.9 times and 40% of those of a corresponding conditioned TPS100BC0.02 specimen, respectively. As evidenced by FTIR analyses of TPS100BC0.02SHMPx specimens, hydroxyl groups of TPS100BC0.02 resins were successfully reacted with the phosphate groups of SHMP molecules. New melting endotherms and diffraction peaks of VH-type crystals were found on DSC thermograms and WAXD patterns of TPS or TPS100BC0.02 specimens conditioned for 7 days, while no new melting endotherm or diffraction peak was found for TPS100BC0.02SHMPx and/or (TPS100BC0.02SHMPx)75PLA25 specimens conditioned for less than 14 and 28 days, respectively.
Ciguatera Fish Poisoning in East Asia and Southeast Asia
Authors: Chan Thomas
Published: June 2015

In the coastal countries of East Asia and Southeast Asia, ciguatera should be common because of the extensive tropical and subtropical coral reefs along the coasts and in the neighboring seas with ciguatoxic fishes. An extensive search of journal databases, the Internet and the government websites was performed to identify all reports of ciguatera from the regions. Based on the official data and large published case series, the incidence of ciguatera was higher in the coastal cities (Hong Kong, Foshan, Zhongshan) of southern China than in Japan (Okinawa Prefecture). In Singapore, ciguatera appeared to be almost unknown. In other countries, only isolated cases or small case series were reported, but under-reporting was assumed to be common. Ciguatera may cause severe acute illness and prolonged neurological symptoms. Ciguatera represents an important public health issue for endemic regions, with significant socio-economic impact. Coordinated strategies to improve risk assessment, risk management and risk communication are required. The systematic collection of accurate data on the incidence and epidemiology of ciguatera should enable better assessment and management of its risk. Much more work needs to be done to define the size threshold for important coral reef fish species from different regions, above which the risk of ciguatera significantly increases.
A New and Efficient Synthesis of 6-O-Methylscutellarein, the Major Metabolite of the Natural Medicine Scutellarin
Authors: Zhang Wei , Dong Ze-Xi , Gu Ting , Li Nian-Guang , Zhang Peng-Xuan , Wu Wen-Yu , Yu Shao-Peng , Tang Yu-Ping , Yang Jian-Ping , Shi Zhi-Hao
Published: June 2015

In this paper, a new and efficient synthesis of 6-O-methylscutellarein (3), the major metabolite of the natural medicine scutellarin, is reported. Two hydroxyl groups at C-4′ and C-7 in 2 were selectively protected by chloromethyl methyl ether after the reaction conditions were optimized, then 6-O-methyl-scutellarein (3) was produced in high yield after methylation of the hydroxyl group at C-6 and subsequent deprotection of the two methyl ether groups.
Profiling Physical Activity, Diet, Screen and Sleep Habits in Portuguese Children
Authors: Pereira Sara , Katzmarzyk Peter , Gomes Thayse , Borges Alessandra , Santos Daniel , Souza Michele , Santos Fernanda , Chaves Raquel , Champagne Catherine , Barreira Tiago , Maia José
Published: June 2015

Obesity in children is partly due to unhealthy lifestyle behaviours, e.g., sedentary activity and poor dietary choices. This trend has been seen globally. To determine the extent of these behaviours in a Portuguese population of children, 686 children 9.5 to 10.5 years of age were studied. Our aims were to: (1) describe profiles of children’s lifestyle behaviours; (2) identify behaviour pattern classes; and (3) estimate combined effects of individual/ socio-demographic characteristics in predicting class membership. Physical activity and sleep time were estimated by 24-h accelerometry. Nutritional habits, screen time and socio-demographics were obtained. Latent Class Analysis was used to determine unhealthy lifestyle behaviours. Logistic regression analysis predicted class membership. About 78% of children had three or more unhealthy lifestyle behaviours, while 0.2% presented no risk. Two classes were identified: Class 1-Sedentary, poorer diet quality; and Class 2-Insufficiently active, better diet quality, 35% and 65% of the population, respectively. More mature children (Odds Ratio (OR) = 6.75; 95%CI = 4.74–10.41), and boys (OR = 3.06; 95% CI = 1.98–4.72) were more likely to be overweight/obese. However, those belonging to Class 2 were less likely to be overweight/obese (OR = 0.60; 95% CI = 0.43–0.84). Maternal education level and household income did not significantly predict weight status (p ≥ 0.05).
Resveratrol Inhibits the Invasion of Glioblastoma-Initiating Cells via Down-Regulation of the PI3K/Akt/NF-κB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Jiao Yuming , Li Hao , Liu Yaodong , Guo Anchen , Xu Xiaoxue , Qu Xianjun , Wang Shuo , Zhao Jizong , Li Ye , Cao Yong
Published: June 2015

Invasion and metastasis of glioblastoma-initiating cells (GICs) are thought to be responsible for the progression and recurrence of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). A safe drug that can be applied during the rest period of temozolomide (TMZ) maintenance cycles would greatly improve the prognosis of GBM patients by inhibiting GIC invasion. Resveratrol (RES) is a natural compound that exhibits anti-invasion properties in multiple tumor cell lines. The current study aimed to evaluate whether RES can inhibit GIC invasion in vitro and in vivo. GICs were identified using CD133 and Nestin immunofluorescence staining and tumorigenesis in non-obese diabetic severe combined immunodeficient (NOD/SCID) mice. Invasive behaviors, including the adhesion, invasion and migration of GICs, were determined by tumor invasive assays in vitro and in vivo. The activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) was measured by the gelatin zymography assay. Western blotting analysis and immunofluorescence staining were used to determine the expression of signaling effectors in GICs. We demonstrated that RES suppressed the adhesion, invasion and migration of GICs in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, we proved that RES inhibited the invasion of GICs via the inhibition of PI3K/Akt/NF-κB signal transduction and the subsequent suppression of MMP-2 expression.
Organizational Approaches to the Facilitation of Education for Sustainability: An Interpretive Case Study
Authors: Duggan Michael , Smith Timothy , Thomsen Dana
Published: June 2015

The facilitation of Education for Sustainability (EfS) by Decentralized Global Networks (DGNs) is consistent with the dynamic and increasingly complex nature of sustainability issues, and is often motivated by inter-governmental policy objectives that link sustainability learning with sustainable development. The use of DGNs for EfS is now well established and supports the participation of a geographically dispersed and diverse body of participants that consist of teachers, teacher-educators, policy makers, and researchers. However, there is limited understanding of the complex systems operating within DGNs and how these systems generate the conditions necessary to facilitate EfS. In this article, the authors report on an interpretive case study of the Environment and Schools Initiative (ENSI), a DGN operating for over 26 years with a membership that has spanned over 25 countries. Findings highlight six dimensions of the ENSI DGN important to the effective facilitation of EfS including: (1) developing a community of practice; (2) planning for phased organizational development; (3) structured decentralization using a strategy-node-program framework; (4) linking research to practice; (5) ensuring relevance through contextualized approaches; and (6) monitoring and evaluation of processes and outcomes. The findings identify organizational level approaches to EfS facilitation such as addressing the nexus created between policy, practice and research, and developing a structure focused on learning and the development of networks more broadly. In conclusion, the delivery of learning and teaching strategies through a geographically dispersed and diverse group of participants can address the inherent complexity of EfS facilitation across various spatial and cultural scales.
Assessment and Management of the Geomorphological Heritage of Monte Pindo (NW Spain): A Landscape as a Symbol of Identity
Authors: Costa-Casais Manuela , Alves María , Blanco-Chao Ramón
Published: June 2015

This study focuses on the granite mountain known as Monte Pindo (627 m above sea level) in the Autonomous Community of Galicia (NW Spain). This territory is included in the area classified as “Costa da Morte” in the “Politica de Ordenación Litoral” (POL) (Coastal Planning Policy) for the region of Galicia. This coastal unit, located between “Rías Baixas” and “Cape Fisterra” has great potential for demonstrating geological processes and its geomorphological heritage is characterized by a high degree of geodiversity of granite landforms. The main objective of our work is to assess the geomorphological heritage of the site, thus revealing its wide geodiversity. We shall analyze and highlight: its scientific value, developing an inventory of granite landforms; its educational valuel and its geotouristic potential. It must be ensured that the Administration understands that natural diversity is composed of both geodiversity and biodiversity. Only then will the sustainable management of Monte Pindo become possible by integrating natural and cultural heritage values. The goal is to ensure that Monte Pindo and its immediate surroundings become a geopark with the aim of promoting local development projects based on the conservation and valorization of its geological heritage.
Sustainability Assessment Framework for VET Organizations
Authors: Moldovan Liviu
Published: June 2015

This paper presents a new and innovative approach to assessing Vocational Education and Training (VET) organizations institutional sustainability in terms of five key pillars: institutional capacity, environmental, economic, social, and training provision. In the five areas of the proposed new and original sustainability assessment framework, a total of 40 performance indicators are used to make the assessment. The assessment process is based on a novel approach for the couple values for performance and importance of the indicators, by using scales from 1 to 5 for both. There are five performance categories (awareness, measures, action, innovation and excellence) and five importance categories for each indicator. The framework is innovative, both by its objective, which consists in impact determining and improvement on environmental, economic, social and quality of the training system and by development of a strategy based on performance indicators that integrates sustainable development. The implementation methodology is based on the newly developed framework and detailed application guidelines are provided. Exact results from a case study carried out and an analysis of the results for the environmental area are presented in order to validate the methodology in action. The results are used to establish a sustainability baseline, to identify possibilities for improvement, and to prioritize implementation.