bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selective forms of tourism in Montenegro
Authors: Dasic Nedica , Jovicic Dobrica
Published: October 2011

Today, the economy of many countries, particularly the Mediterranean ones,
can not be imagined without a developed tourism industry, having in mind its
multiplier effects. Thanks to the Mediterranean maritime position, which
marked the historical trends and cultural development of Montenegro, as well
as numerous attractions of nature and extreme tourism complementarity between
the sea and mountains, one can not overestimate the importance of tourism
industry in its future development. In this regard, today, tourism industry
represents a strategic industry and the backbone of socio-economic
development of Montenegro. Problems of its potential for tourism development
have been considered by the authors of numerous scientific papers, strategic
development documents, as well as spatial plans. Achievements of previous
researches should be applied in practice of tourism and hotel industry in
Montenegro.
Comparison of morphemic word structure and a cartographic sign
Authors: Zivkovic Dragica , Jovanovic Jasmina
Published: October 2011

Language is a system of gestures, sounds, characters, symbols and words that
are used to display concepts and communication. Map language is derived from
natural language, rather than parallel to it, as its graphical equivalent.
Natural and mapping language is based on a system of signs. In the natural
language, the letters are the smallest units, and arranged meaningfully they
constitute a sign - a word i.e. a concept. In a cartographic language one
sign is one term. But common to both languages is the basis of character -
morphemes and its accessories - affixes, which in the cartographic language
have greater possibilities of expression.
The importance of the natural and social resources in the function of the integrational and ambiental approach within the school function innovation
Authors: Andjelkovic Sladjana , Stanisavljevic-Petrovic Zorica
Published: October 2011

In work, different possibilities are considered, which are offered by natural
and social resources with the goal to change and modernize the teaching
outside of the classroom in different environments. Modern teaching is based
on the holistic, integrated approach in which the knowledge is viewed as a
complete system in a constant process of transformation. Thus, the importance
of the environment is asserted, the importance of the ambient in which the
teaching process is being conducted. Authentic environment (natural and
social resources) in which the teaching is realized, outside of the
classroom, creates possibilities for learning through active working methods,
independent research, exploration and noticing the relationships and
connections. Teaching in the authentic environment offers a series of
advantages for both the students and teacher-partners in the process of
constructing a knowledge system. Using the resources and modern complex
integration approach within the existing educational practice can
significantly influence the modernization and innovation of the educational
process, and can make the school, as a basic educational institution, a more
suitable and more attractive for the generations to come.
Stratospheric ozone fluctuation and ultraviolet radiation over Serbia
Authors: Nikolic Jugoslav , Ducic Vladan , Martic-Bursac Natasa
Published: October 2011

Increased ultraviolet radiation potentially detrimental to health is a direct
effect of the reduced ozone layer of the Earth?s atmosphere. Stratospheric
ozone over the territory of Serbia and immediate surrounding depleted in the
considered period of 1979-2008; its amount reduced by 7.6%. Solar and
volcanic activities have significant effect on the interannual variability of
the stratospheric ozone. Ozone layer over Serbia is 13.8% thicker than the
planetary layer, with the ozone hole forming once in five years on average
without serious health implications.
Measurement of the neutron spectrum by the multi-sphere method using a BF3 counter
Authors: Khabaz Rahim , Hakimabad Miri
Published: October 2011

The multi-sphere method, a neutron detection technique, has been improved
with a BF3 long cylindrical counter as a thermal detector located in the
center of seven spheres with a diameter range of 3.5 to 12 inches. Energy
response functions of the system have been determined by applying the MCNP4C
Monte Carlo code of 10-8 MeV to 18 MeV. A new shadow cone has been designed
to account for scattered neutrons. Although the newly designed shadow cone
is smaller in length, its attenuation coefficient has been improved. To
evaluate the system, the neutron spectrum of a 241AM-Be source has been
measured.
A concept that is everything and nothing: Why not to study (post-)Yugoslav anti-war and pacifist contention from a civil society perspective
Authors: Bilic Bojan
Published: October 2011

This paper draws upon a variety of empirical sources to start critically
examining the concept of civil society in the context of both (post-)Yugoslav
anti-war and pacifist contention and the civic engagement stemming from it in
the nationally fragmented post-Yugoslav space. I argue that civil society can
no longer be meaningfully used for understanding the complex geometry of
social, political and personal interactions, cooperation's and resistances
within the regional civic spheres characterized by appreciable power
asymmetries. Its definitional volatility and logical incoherence allow civil
society to incorporate ideologically and historically extremely divergent
phenomena. Due to its conceptual elasticity, civil society is a cognitively
easily available device and a depoliticised theoretical paradigm convenient
for masking power networks frequently conditioned by foreign political
agendas. This paper points to possible alternative perspectives that might
prove more productive for analyzing (post-)Yugoslav bottom-up civic
engagement.
Presence and importance of mycotoxins in pig feed
Authors: Markovic Radmila , Sefer Dragan , Radulovic Stamen , Speranda Marcela
Published: October 2011

Mycotoxins present a significant problem in the diet of pigs. Secondary metabolites of fungi are toxic matter that have a negative effect on health and the performance of animals, as well as on the quality of their products. The creating of mycotosins is a complex process and it is difficult to predict which toxin will be produced and in which concentration. Food is most often contaminated by low concentrations of different mycotoxins (aflatoxins, ochratoxins, trichothecenes, fumonisinsi and zearalenone) which cause a series of undesired effects, depending on the amount that the animal has ingested into the organism. Mycotoxin interactions in the organism are complex, and they can have antagonistic, synergistic or a joint effect, depending on the combination and quantity in which they appear. The pig is a domestic animal which is most sensitive to the effects of mycotoxins. Long-term consumption of feed contaminated with mycotoxins results in a decline in production, a deterioration of the general health and reproductive disorders. One of the most important negative effects in pigs which receive low doses of mycotoxins in the longterm, is immunosuppression. Mycotoxins present very stable links that remain in raw materials and animal products for a long time and thus pose a major health risk for humans. .
Using vacuum in the treatment of surgical wounds complications
Authors: Draskovic Miroljub , Lekovic Ivan , Bjelanovic Zoran , Misovic Sidor , Kozarski Jefta
Published: October 2011

Background/Aim. Using vacuum in medicine has been known from long ago,
however, it has not been used for the treatment of wounds. The first
experiments in this field were performed by Wagner Fleischmann, University of
Ulm, Ulm, West Germany, in 1993. The aim of this study was to present our
clinical experience with the treatment of surgical wounds complications in
vascular patients by the use of controled vacuum. Method. In a period October
2006 - December 2009 a total of 18 patients with infection and surgical wound
dehiscence were treated by the use of vacuum. Vacuum was applied to wounds by
placing a polyurethane sponge on them and by fixing a polyurethane foil and a
sponge to the surrounding healthy skin so to completely airtight wounds. Over
a foil vacuum of - 150 mmHg was applied for a 5-day period, and on the day 6
a foil and a sponge were removed. Results. In all the 18 wounds treated by
the use of vacuum secondary wound closing was achieved with no complications
and with a significantly shortened time period treatment. Wound infections
were healed using this method and only in 2 patients antibiotics were used at
the same time. Conclusion. The use of vacuum in the treatment of operative
wounds complications is an easy and reliable method contributing
significantly to wounds better healing.
Influence of Hyperinsulinemia and Insulin Resistance on In Vivo β-Cell Function
Authors: Mari Andrea , Tura Andrea , Natali Andrea , Anderwald Christian , Balkau Beverley , Lalic Nebojsa , Walker Mark , Ferrannini Ele ,   for the RISC Investigators
Published: October 2011

OBJECTIVE

Recent work has shown that insulin stimulates its own secretion in insulin-sensitive humans, suggesting that insulin resistance in the β-cell could cause β-cell dysfunction. We have tested whether insulin exposure and insulin sensitivity modulate β-cell function in subjects with normal glucose tolerance (NGT) and whether they contribute to dysglycemia in impaired glucose regulation (IGR).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Insulin sensitivity (by euglycemic clamp), insulin-induced secretory response at isoglycemia (IISR) (as C-peptide percent change from basal during the clamp), glucose-induced secretory response (GISR) to an intravenous glucose bolus, and β-cell glucose sensitivity (β-GS) (by oral glucose tolerance test [OGTT] modeling) were measured in 1,151 NGT and 163 IGR subjects from the RISC (Relationship between Insulin Sensitivity and Cardiovascular Disease) study.

RESULTS

In NGT, IISR was related to both insulin sensitivity and antecedent insulin exposure; GISR was related to insulin exposure. IISR was positively, if weakly, related to β-GS (r= 0.16, P < 0.0001). Both IISR (−23 [39] vs. −9 [2]%, median [interquartile range], P < 0.03) and β-GS (69 [47] vs. 118 [83] pmol ⋅ min–1 ⋅ m–2 ⋅ mmol–1 ⋅ L, P < 0.0001) were decreased in IGR compared with NGT. Insulin sensitivity and β-GS were the major determinants of mean OGTT glucose in both NGT and IGR, with a minor role for IISR. In a multivariate logistic model, IGR was predicted by β-GS (odds ratio 4.84 [95% CI 2.89–8.09]) and insulin sensitivity (3.06 [2.19–4.27]) but not by IISR (1.11 [0.77–1.61]).

CONCLUSIONS

Pre-exposure to physiological hyperinsulinemia stimulates insulin secretion to a degree that depends on insulin sensitivity. However, this phenomenon has limited impact on β-cell dysfunction and dysglycemia.
Antibiotic susceptibility of methicillin-resistant and methicillin-susceptible coagulase-negative staphylococci isolated from bovine mastitis
Authors: Bochniarz M. , Wawron W.
Published: October 2011

Antibiotic susceptibility of methicillin-resistant and methicillin-susceptible coagulase-negative staphylococci isolated from bovine mastitis

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antibiotic susceptibility of methicillin-susceptible (MS) and methicillin-resistant (MR) coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (CNS) strains isolated from milk of cows with mastitis. The study was conducted on 100 CNS strains (20 MRCNS and 80 MSCNS) isolated from milk samples of 86 cows from the Lublin (Poland) region farms. Antibiotic susceptibility of microorganisms was evaluated using the disc-diffusion method on the Mueller-Hinton agar according to the guidelines of the National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards (NCCLS). The highest efficacy against MSCNS was demonstrated for cephalosporin antibiotics, i.e. cefacetril (91.3%), ceftiofur (67.5%), cefoperazone (66.3%) and cephalexin (60.0% of susceptible MSCNS strains). Moreover, a high percentage of vancomycin-susceptible strains was demonstrated (83. 8%). The activity of combination of amoxicillin with clavulanic acid and gentamicin was found weaker (63.8% and 61.3% of susceptible strains, respectively). About 50.0% of MSCNS were susceptible to erythromycin, enrofloxacine and amoxicillin. A large proportion of CNS was resistant to neomycin, penicillin, tetracycline, streptomycin, lincomycin and ampicillin (28.8%, 30.0%, 31.3%, 31.3%, 33.8% and 33.8% of susceptible strains, respectively). The highest percentage of MRCNS was susceptible to vancomycin (75.0%), erythromycin (65.0%) and streptomycin (50.0%). Their susceptibility to enrofloxacine (35.0%) as well as gentamicin and tetracycline (30.0%) was markedly lower. The lowest activity was found for lincomycin and neomycin (20.0% of susceptible MRCNS strains, each).
Myocardial bridges in domestic pig - morphological aspects
Authors: Kosiński A. , Grzybiak M. , Piwko G. , Kozłowski D.
Published: October 2011

Myocardial bridges in domestic pig - morphological aspects

The morphology of myocardial bridges (MB) in the heart of the domestic pig remain an open issue. Despite numerous analyses of the subject, many controversies still exist. Opinions also differ when the influence of the MB on haemodynamic processes in the coronal vessel system is concerned. In the examined group of 150 domestic pig's hearts, the length of the detected MB varied from 1.8 to 39.7 mm while their thickness amounted to 0.8 - 4.7 mm. Both the longest and the thickest bridges were connected with the posterior interventricular branch. It was noticed that the MB muscle bands cross the long axis of the vessels located in the grooves mostly at almost a right angle. Three forms of perivascular space were educed using the criterion of the distance of the vessel from the surrounding muscularis externa.
Growth factor and cytokine interactions in myogenesis. Part II. Expression of IGF binding proteins and protein kinases essential for myogenesis in mouse C2C12 myogenic cells exposed to TNF-α and IFN-γ
Authors: Wieteska-Skrzeczyńska W. , Grzelkowska-Kowalczyk K. , Rejmak E.
Published: October 2011

Growth factor and cytokine interactions in myogenesis. Part II. Expression of IGF binding proteins and protein kinases essential for myogenesis in mouse C2C12 myogenic cells exposed to TNF-α and IFN-γ

The aim of the study was to examine potential interactions among IGF-I and proinflammatory cytokines, TNF-α and IFN-γ, in the regulation of local IGF-I bioavailability and cellular proteins mediating myogenic signals. We investigated levels of IGFBP-4, -5, -6, protein kinase Czeta (PKCζ), p38 and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2) in differentiating mouse C2C12 myoblasts. IGF-I significantly stimulated expression of IGFBP-5. TNF-α and IFN-γ attenuated the expression of IGFBP-4 and -6 under basal conditions and in the presence of IGF-I, and inhibited IGF-I-induced IGFBP-5 expression during 5-day myogenesis. TNF-α and IFN-γ markedly attenuated p38 expression in the presence of IGF-I on the 5th day of myogenesis. When combined with IGF-I the cytokines exerted opposite effects on the PKCζ level, i.e. TNF-α caused an increase, whereas IFN-γ reduced the cellular content of this kinase. Exposition of C2C12 myoblasts to IGF-I or cytokines led to the stimulation of ERK1/2 phosphorylation; however, both TNF-α and IFN-γ exerted an inhibitory effect on the activation of ERK1/2 in myoblasts cultured in the presence of IGF-I. We concluded as follows: i) TNF-α and IFN-γ present in the extracellular environment of differentiating C2C12 myoblasts can alter the local bioavailability of IGF-I by inhibiting the expression of IGFBP-4, -5, and -6, ii) the decrease in p38 expression and ERK1/2 phosphorylation in C2C12 myoblasts exposed to cytokines can lead to disturbances in IGF-I-regulated myogenesis.
Experimental Data on Epoxy Resin Samples: Small Partial Discharges at Inception Voltage and Some Thoughts on the Possibility of the Existence of Charging Phenomena Below Inception Voltage
Authors: Danikas Michael , Zhao Xu , Cheng Yong-hong
Published: October 2011

Experimental Data on Epoxy Resin Samples: Small Partial Discharges at Inception Voltage and Some Thoughts on the Possibility of the Existence of Charging Phenomena Below Inception Voltage

In this paper, some results are presented on experiments concerning partial discharges (PD) behavior of epoxy resin samples. The main idea is to see whether a sample with PD at its inception voltage, still presents some tendency to charging effects below inception. An effort is being made to relate the present work with previous publications on the same main idea. The experiment arrangement is three layers of epoxy resin with a void in middle layer. Different level voltages under inception voltage are applied to the arrangement and different PD waves are registered under different level voltages. To make sure that the tendency to charging effects below inception, infrared spectrum analysis is also conducted and the result is content to clarify our objective.
The Validity of the DSM-IV Diagnostic Classification System of Non-Affective Psychoses
Authors: Korver-Nieberg Nikie , Quee Piotr J. , Boos Heleen B. , Simons Claudia J. ,   GROUP
Published: October 2011

Objective: The schizophrenia and other non-affective disorders categories listed in the DSM-IV, are currently under revision for the development of the fifth edition. The aim of the present study is to demonstrate the validity of these categories by investigating possible differences between diagnostic patient subgroups on various measures.

Methods: 1064 patients with a diagnosis of non-affective psychosis (schizophrenia N = 731 (paranoid type 82%), schizoaffective N = 63, schizophreniform N = 120, psychosis not otherwise specified/brief psychotic disorder N = 150) participated in this study. Dependent variables were demographic and clinical characteristics, severity of psychopathology, premorbid and current functioning, and indicators of quality of life.

Results: Within the diagnostic group of schizophrenia, no significant differences were observed between paranoid schizophrenia, disorganized, and undifferentiated schizophrenia. Patients with schizophrenia experienced more severe psychopathology and had poorer levels of current functioning compared to patients with psychosis not otherwise specified or brief psychotic disorder. Differences between schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder were less clear.

Conclusion: Our results do not support the validity of schizophrenia subtypes. Schizophrenia can be distinguished from brief psychotic disorder and psychotic disorder not otherwise specified. These findings may fuel the actual DSM-V discussion.
Petrography of fine aggregates from Kaligandaki River, western Nepal: implication for assessment of deleterious constituents
Authors: Tamrakar Naresh Kazi
Published: October 2011

Seven fine aggregate samples from test pits driven at the river banks of the Kaligandaki River and banks of the contributingstreams around Kokethanti-Chhyo Bagar area were petrographically analysed as these will be used for concrete aggregates. Theaggregates had median grains size of 0.45-1.00 mm and were well graded. They were dominantly composed of carbonate rockfragments and the total QFL modes being Q14.81–28.87F0.63–4.58L66.55–84.15. All the samples were classified as medium-grainedcalc-lithic sands. Quartz grains were dominantly megaquartz. Some chert grains and few quartz grains occurring in siliceouslimestones were of microquartz.Considering deletereous constituents, the sample T1 had chert fragments. The sample T2 had high amount of micas suggestingits low workability. Silt/clay-grade size fraction was the deletereous material to all the samples and this fraction should be removedduring processing. The samples T2, T6 and T7 showed greater preferability among the samples as these had lower amount ofunsound rock fragments such as carbonaceous schists/phyllite, and other deletereous materials.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bdg.v14i0.5436Bulletin of the Department of Geology Vol.14 2011, pp. 29-34
Performance Bond Benefit–Cost Analysis
Authors: Myers Lorena , Najafi Fazil T.
Published: October 2011

A performance bond provides the assurance that an awarded construction project will be satisfactorily completed in the event that the contractor is unable to complete the project as agreed and the contract is terminated. First passed into U.S. law in the late 1800s, performance bonds protect against financial losses. The ability of contractors to provide a performance bond has mistakenly been assumed as a guarantee that contractors will perform well on the projects they are awarded. Indications are that there is a need to evaluate the benefits and the costs of using performance bonds. This paper examines the benefit–cost ratios of performance bonds on a national basis. Analysis was performed on state construction project data collected for contract awards from September 2007 to September 2009. The results of the analysis suggest that states with a small number of defaults, or none at all, did not benefit from having performance bonds, whereas those states with numerous defaults did benefit. In conclusion, the results suggest that performance bonds are beneficial to states that experience a large number of defaults.
Key Performance Indicators in Highway Design and Construction
Authors: Molenaar Keith R. , Navarro Desiderio
Published: October 2011

AASHTO has expressed the need for formalized and effective performance-based management in highway projects. Performance measures and key performance indicators (KPIs) are widely used by international highway agencies to manage performance in public–private partnership contracts, with great success. Performance measures have been used by a number of U.S. state departments of transportation (DOTs) to manage highway agency performance, but the use of formalized KPIs is limited. This research presents information from four detailed design–build (DB) case studies. The case studies were selected from DOTs with mature performance management systems to determine how contractor performance is managed during design and construction. The research found that although performance measures were used in the majority of the case studies, formal KPIs were not. This paper provides a description of practices for managing performance during design and construction and how the current practices and DB requests for proposal offer state DOTs the opportunity to implement KPIs effectively. The results include examples from each case study revealing how the opportunities for design and construction KPIs are aligned with higher agency-level performance measures. The findings and these relationships were determined for six different performance areas common to design and construction: (a) cost and schedule monitoring, (b) quality monitoring, (c) safety management, (d) public information management, (e) environmental stewardship, and (f) traffic reliability during construction. Results of this study may assist agencies and researchers in developing a more standard form of performance management.
Performance-Related Specification for Superpave Pavements in Kansas
Authors: Gedafa Daba , Hossain Mustaque , Ingram Lon S. , Kreider Rick
Published: October 2011

Statistical specifications for highway construction provide the means to measure the important quality control attributes and ensure their compliance. The pay adjustments, part of these specifications, reflect the amount of deduction or bonus and the optimized risk distributed between the owner and the contractor. The Kansas Department of Transportation (DOT) has built a comprehensive database of as-constructed material properties for Superpave® pavements from the tests required in the quality control–quality assurance (QC-QA) program. Currently, Kansas DOT pays incentives or disincentives for mixture air voids and in-place density of Superpave pavements. A practical performance model and a composite index that includes air voids, in-place density, asphalt content, and voids in mineral aggregate are needed to reflect the factors that affect the performance of Superpave pavements. The main objectives of this study were to investigate the effect of levels of significance and lot size and to develop practical performance models and a composite index for Superpave pavements in Kansas. Thirty-five projects from six administrative districts of Kansas DOT were selected in this study. Lot-by-lot comparison showed that QC-QA means were significantly different in most cases. The number of cases with a significant difference in means increased with an increase in significance level. A practical performance model and composite index from multiple quality characteristics have been proposed as an integral part of performance-related specifications (PRS) for Superpave pavements in Kansas. The performance model can be used to better understand the consequences of either exceeding or falling short of the desired quality levels and will provide a logical and defensible basis for the adjusted pay schedules that are an integral part of PRS.
Design of Steel Bridges for Shinkansen, Japan, High-Speed Rail
Authors: Minami Kuniaki , Shimizu Kenji
Published: October 2011

Many types of steel railway bridges—including composite girders, truss bridges, and arch bridges—have been constructed for the Shinkansen high-speed rail in Japan. Recently, the selection of both the structural type of bridge and the bridge's method of erection became more important. In this paper, first the concept of selecting the type of bridge and erection methods according to the surrounding conditions is discussed. Then an example of the latest construction, Matsubara Bridge in Kyushu Shinkansen, is described. This 1,243-m-long bridge is the longest over-bridge across rail track in Japan. Moreover, the construction site was located in a densely populated area and the existing rail was very busy. With those severe conditions overcome with state-of-the-art bridge erection techniques, construction was completed smoothly.
Genetic divergence and genetic gain in bread wheat through selection practices
Authors: Ferdous M , Nath UK , Islam A
Published: October 2011

Genetic diversity is essential to meet the diversified goals of plant breeding such as producing cultivars with increased yield, wider adaptation, desirable quality, pest and disease resistance. In this study genetic diversity and selection index of 24 genotypes of bread wheat were evaluated. The performance of 24 wheat genotypes showed that there were significant variations for the characters suggesting the presence of genetic variability among the genotypes. The genotypes were grouped into five clusters viz. I, II, III, IV and V based on Mahalanobis’ D2 statistics. Cluster I and II were the largest group containing six genotypes and the rest three clusters contained four, five and three genotypes respectively. The genotyps belonging to the same group had smaller D2- value than between those belonging to different clusters. Study on selection indices through discriminate function showed that Anza ranked as the best followed by the genotypes Rawal, PBW-373 and Kheri and suggests that these highest scoring genotypes might be recommended for farmers’ cultivation for better yield and it would be expected genetic gain upto 49.77% through selection practices based on the characters studied. Therefore, a crossing programme could be made among the genotypes belonging in cluster I and cluster V will provide maximum heterotic combination, especially for yield of bread wheat. Alternatively, among the studied genotypes Anza could be cultivated for better performance. Keywords: Genetic divergence; Genetic gain; Selection indices; Bread wheatDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbau.v9i1.8736 JBAU 2011; 9(1): 1-4
In vitro shoot proliferation and development of micropropagation protocol from leaf disc of Gladiolus
Authors: Shaheenuzzaman M , Haque MS , Karim MM , Noor ZU
Published: October 2011

The experiment was carried out during the period from July 2008 to March, 2009 at the Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh. The present investigation was to be better source for shoot multiplication. The calli derived from leaf discs were cultured on shoot induction media containing different combinations and concentrations of BAP (1.0, 1.5, 3.0 and 6.0 mg/L) and Kn (0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 mg/L). The highest percentage of shoot regeneration (91.66%) and the highest shoot length was 4.24 (cm) with a minimum number of days (13.33) was observed in the MS medium supplemented with 3.0 mg/L BAP and 0.5 mg/L Kn. Thus shoot multiplication in successive subculture was possible. The present investigation was carried out to study the in vitro shoot multiplication in gladiolus by using leaf disc as explants Keyword: Shoot proliferation; Micropropagation; BAP: 6-benzylamino purine; Kn: Kinetin; Leaf disc DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbau.v9i1.8739 JBAU 2011; 9(1): 21-26
Efficacy of some plant extracts on the mycelial growth of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides
Authors: Mukherjee A , Khandker S , Islam MR , Shahid Sonia B
Published: October 2011

The anti fungal effects of some plants extracts namely tobacco leaf, keora seed, keora, mahogoni, gaint indian milky weed, garlic and ginger at different concentrations (30%, 40%, 50%, 60% and 70%) on the growth and development of C. gloeosporioides, causal agent of anthracnose of mango were evaluated. Radial growth of C. gloeosporioides was recorded. The growth inhibition increase with the increase of concentration of all the plant extracts. Highest mycelial growth inhibition (74.35%) was observed in case of garlic extracts at 70% concentration. Garlic extract at 50% and 60% concentration were also effective than other treatments.Keywords: C. Gloeosporiodes; Plant extracts; Inhibition DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbau.v9i1.8742 JBAU 2011; 9(1): 43-47
Characterization of Black Bengal goat
Authors: Paul S , Khandoker MAMY , Moinuddin MA , Paul RC
Published: October 2011

Characterization of Black Bengal bucks and does was performed in this study. A total of 50 goats of different aged were studied. The experiment was performed in Black Bengal bucks and does at 1st day and at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months of age for measuring different parameters such as body length, heart girth, wither height, hip height, fore and hind leg length, head length and width, head length and width, ear length and ear breath, scrotal length and scrotal circumference. In a single parameter as body weight of Black Bengal bucks and does at 1st day and at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months of age were found to be 1.08±0.06, 5.22±0.33, 8.95±0.34, 12.05±0.47 and 14.20±0.20; and 1.01±0.23, 3.93±0.19, 7.41±0.27, 9.53±0.38 and 12.40±0.41 kg respectively. Whereas all the finding where gradually increased for all parameters according to their specific age periods. Body weight has a strong positive relationship with heart girth, body length, height at wither, scrotal length and scrotal circumference in Black Bengal goat. All the parameters studied found comparatively higher in bucks than does. Keywords: Black Bengal goat; Characterization; Body parts; Analysis DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbau.v9i1.8745 JBAU 2011; 9(1): 61-66
A baseline survey on the availability of Black Bengal breeding bucks in different districts of Bangladesh
Authors: Khandoker MAMY , Apu AS , Husain SS , Notter DR
Published: October 2011

The present study was conducted to assess the availability of Black Bengal breeding bucks in five districts from the Northern part (Lalmonirhat and Rangpur), Central part (Tangail and Mymensingh) and Southern part (Khulna) of Bangladesh and also to explore the relationship between distance of does from these breeding bucks and type of scarcity. The data were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire from 100 goat rearers of 100 villages in five districts. In this study, the selected characteristics of the respondents and other factors on the availability of Black Bengal breeding bucks were considered as independent variable whereas type of scarcity was considered as dependent variable. The buck and doe ratios were 1:164, 1:138, 1:114, 1:127 and 1:96 in Lalmonirhat, Rangpur, Tangail, Khulna and Mymensingh district, respectively. The pooled buck and doe ratio was 1:128. More than 70% farmers faced severe shortage of breeding bucks for serving their does in the above districts which ultimately represent the overall situation of the country. Almost all farmers (100%) had to depend on natural mating to serve their does except the farmers of Mymensingh where 12% farmers depended on artificial insemination in goat. It was observed that type of scarcity had significantly positively correlated (0.933) with distance of does from breeding bucks. This also indicated that type of scarcity gradually reached to severe level which may create the inbreeding depression in goat breeding. Keywords: Breeding buck; Black Bengal DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbau.v9i1.8750 JBAU 2011; 9(1): 91-96
Prevalence and pathology of mite infestation in street dogs at Dinajpur municipality area
Authors: Ali MH , Begum N , Azam MG , Roy BC
Published: October 2011

This study was designed to investigate the prevalence and pathology of mite infestation in the street dog at Dinajpur municipality area, Dinajpur, Bangladesh, during June to September, 2010 using simultaneous clinical and histopathological examination and identification. A total of 48 street dogs (27 male and 21 female) were examined, among them 30(62.5%) were infested with one or more species of mites. Two species of mites were identified as Sarcoptes scabiei var.canis and Demodex canis. The range of mites burden was 1-5 per square inch of heavily infested area. Mean mites burden was high in case of Sarcoptes scabiei var.canis (1.5±0.2) followed by Demodex canis (0.6±0.1). Prevalence was higher in the dog of 1-2 years of age (68.9%) than in the dog of >2-4 years of age (52.6%). Infestation of mite was significantly (p<0.05) higher in male (66.6%) than female (57.1%) dog. Mite infestation was more prevalent in the poor healthy dog (75.7%) than the normal healthy dog (33.3%). Prevalence of mites infestation was significantly (p<0.05) higher in back region (68.1%) followed by face and neck (66.6%) and abdomen (58.3%) and lowest in thigh and groin (40.0%). Grossly, alopecia, rough, dry leathery and corrugation of skin, erythema, pastules, crusts and pruritus were found. Microscopically, it was characterized by acanthosis, slight hyperkeratosis, formation of hyperplastic rete-pegs, destruction of dermis and epidermis, hyperplastic changes in sweat glands, sebaceous glands and hair follicular cells, pyogranuloma in papillary layer and hair follicles and infiltration of neutrophils, oeosinophils, lymphocytes and few macrophages. The results indicate that street dogs of Dinajpur municipality area are very much susceptible to mite infestation. The mite produces clinico- pathological effects on dog, which may be the serious threat to public health. Keywords: Prevalence; Pathology; Mite infestation; Street dogs DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbau.v9i1.8753 JBAU 2011; 9(1): 111-119
An economic study of small scale cattle fattening enterprise of Rajbari district
Authors: Sarma PK , Ahmed JU
Published: October 2011

The small scale cattle fattening enterprise is represents an important component of the agribusiness sector of the economy with great economic, income, poverty reduction and social implications. A large number of farmers involved in cattle fattening just before 3 or 4 months of Eid-ul-Azha (Muslim festival), when they sell the animals with profitable prices. Cattle fattening for beef production have become an important business of the small farmers in Bangladesh. This study examined the profitability as well as operational economics efficiency of cattle fattening enterprise of Rajbari District. Data used to achieve this objective was obtained from 120 nomadic farmers, which were randomly selected using a multi-stage sampling procedure. Data were generated using a survey schedule as well as direct observation (cost-route method). Descriptive statistics, economics analysis as well as operational efficiency index were used to analyze the data. Results showed that small scale cattle fattening enterprise were profitable and flexible. A net enterprise income of BDT 5559 per cattle was realized by an average enterprise in study area. It was also shown that operational efficiency was not generally high among the entrepreneur. Based on these results, the study advised less efficient entrepreneurs to adopt the practices of the efficient ones in order to make the enterprise more profitable. The study shows that small scale cattle fattening enterprise is profitable due to agribusiness context. Farmers used three years old cattle for beef fattening. Cattle fattening period is 4.5 months in rural study areas of Rajbari district in Bangladesh. Keywords: Economic efficiency; Cattle farming; Profitability DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbau.v9i1.8756 JBAU 2011; 9(1): 141-146
Impacts of Pangasius aquaculture on land use patterns in Mymensingh district of Bangladesh
Authors: Ali H , Haque MM
Published: October 2011

Pangasius catfish, Pangasianodoan hypophthalmus farming has been evolved to a shape of commercial enterprise over the last two decades in north-central part of Bangladesh, particularly in Mymensingh area but there is a lack of quantitative and qualitative data on the impacts of it on land use pattern. This study was conducted using multiple methodological tools including participatory rural appraisal (PRA) tools and mainly questionnaire based farm survey to assess the impacts of Pangasius farming on land use from February to September, 2009. The mean farm size (ha), water area (ha) and dyke area (ha) was 1.36±1.25, 1.06±1.31 and 0.30±0.27, respectively. The Pangasius productivity was significantly and positively correlated with water area and dyke area. Around 10.1% area of the study area was converted to Pangasius farm which was previously used as rice-field. Farmers expanded their farm area by taking leased lands which contributed to 56.47% of total farm area and the lease value of Pangasius pond was doubled compared to agriculture land. Around 48% area of dyke were used to produce agriculture crops and the production was 71.01% lower but profit margin was 76.58% higher than normal land. The discharging wastewater of Pangasius pond also increased rice productivity in adjacent agriculture farm by 10% and additionally reduced fertilizer and irrigation cost by 30% and 40%, respectively. Keyword: Pangasius aquaculture; impact on land use pattern; Bangladesh DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbau.v9i1.8759 JBAU 2011; 9(1): 169-178
How does Modernity Taste? Tomatoes in the Societal Change from Modernity to Late Modernity
Authors: Ekelund Lena , Jönsson Håkan
Published: October 2011

The aim of this article is to discuss how changes in tomato food regulation, production and consumption, can be seen as part of a broader societal change from Modernity to Late Modernity. Based on evidence from the Swedish and European food systems we demonstrate how a system, which has been successfully managing development in food production for several decades by stressing rationality, homogeneity and standardization, is being challenged by a system that has adapted to, and also exploited, consumer preferences such as heterogeneity, diversity and authenticity. The article shows how tomato growers develop differentiation strategies, adapting to and cultivating this new consumer interest, and how authorities responsible for regulations of trade and quality struggle to adapt to the new situation. As the products become more diversified, taste becomes an important issue and is associated with a view that traditional and natural are superior to standardized and homogeneous products. The analytical approaches for the discussion come from two study areas: ethnological, and marketing and policy perspective, thus showing a multidimensional picture of a changing food system.
Radio Frequency Interference Detection and Mitigation Algorithms Based on Spectrogram Analysis
Authors: Tarongi Jose Miguel , Camps Adriano
Published: October 2011

Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) detection and mitigation algorithms based on a signal’s spectrogram (frequency and time domain representation) are presented. The radiometric signal’s spectrogram is treated as an image, and therefore image processing techniques are applied to detect and mitigate RFI by two-dimensional filtering. A series of Monte-Carlo simulations have been performed to evaluate the performance of a simple thresholding algorithm and a modified two-dimensional Wiener filter.
Flavonoid and Leaf Gas Exchange Responses of Centella asiatica to Acute Gamma Irradiation and Carbon Dioxide Enrichment under Controlled Environment Conditions
Authors: Moghaddam Sina Siavash , Jaafar Hawa Binti , Aziz Maheran Abdul , Ibrahim Rusli , Rahmat Asmah Bt , Philip Elizabeth
Published: October 2011

The study was couducted to investigate the effects of gamma irradiation and CO2 on flavonoid content and leaf gas exchange in C.asiatica. For flavonoid determination, the design was a split split plot based on Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD). For other parameters, the designs were split plots. Statistical tests revealed significant differences in flavonoid contents of Centella asiatica leaves between different growth stages and various CO2 treatments. CO2 400, G20 (400 = ambient CO2; G20 = Plants exposed to 20 Gy) showed 82.90% higher total flavonoid content (TFC) in the 5th week than CO2 400 as control at its best harvest time (4th week). Increasing the concentration of CO2 from 400 to 800 μmol/mol had significant effects on TFC and harvesting time. In fact, 800 μmol/mol resulted in 171.1% and 66.62% increases in TFC for control and irradiated plants, respectively. Moreover, increasing CO2 concentration reduced the harvesting time to three and four weeks for control and irradiated plants, respectively. Enhancing CO2 to 800 µmol/mol resulted in a 193.30% (CO2 800) increase in leaf biomass compared to 400 µmol/mol and 226.34% enhancement in irradiated plants (CO2 800, G20) [800 = Ambient CO2; G20 = Plants exposed to 20 Gy] than CO2 400, G20. In addition, the CO2 800, G20 had the highest amount of flavonoid*biomass in the 4th week. The results of this study indicated that all elevated CO2 treatments had higher PN than the ambient ones. The findings showed that when CO2 level increased from 400 to 800 µmol/mol, stomatal conductance, leaf intercellular CO2 and transpiration rate had the tendency to decrease. However, water use efficiency increased in response to elevated CO2 concentration. Returning to the findings of this study, it is now possible to state that the proposed method (combined CO2 and gamma irradiation) has the potential to increase the product value by reducing the time to harvest, increasing the yield per unit area via boosting photosynthesis capacity, as well as increasing biochemicals (flavonoids) per gram DM.
Synthesis of [(4-Chloro-5H-1,2,3-dithiazol-5-ylidene)amino]azines
Authors: Koutentis Panayiotis A. , Koyioni Maria , Michaelidou Sophia S.
Published: October 2011

The reactions of 2-, 3- and 4-aminopyridines with 4,5-dichloro-1,2,3-dithiazol-ium chloride (Appel salt) 4 to give N-(4-chloro-5H-1,2,3-dithiazol-5-ylidene)pyridin-X-amines 1a (X = 2), 1g (X = 3) and 1k (X = 4) were optimized with respect to base, temperature and reaction time. Based on these conditions a total of thirteen [(dithiazol-ylidene)amino]azines 1a-m were prepared and fully characterized.
Effects of the Ethyl Acetate Fraction of Alchornea triplinervia on Healing Gastric Ulcer in Rats
Authors: Lima Zeila P. , Bonamin Flavia , Calvo Tamara R. , Vilegas Wagner , Santos Lourdes C. , Rozza Ariane L. , Pellizzon Claudia H. , Rocha Lucia R. M. , Hiruma-Lima Clélia A.
Published: October 2011

Alchornea triplinervia (Spreng.) Muell. Arg (Euphorbiaceae) is a medicinal plant commonly used by people living in the Cerrado region of Brazil to treat gastrointestinal ulcers. We previously described the gastroprotective action of methanolic extract (ME) of Alchornea triplinervia and the ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) in increasing of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) gastric levels in the mucosa. In this work we evaluated the effect of EAF in promoting the healing process in rats with acetic acid-induced gastric ulcers. In addition, toxicity was investigated during treatment with EAF. After 14 days of treatment with EAF, the potent stimulator of gastric cell proliferation contributed to the acceleration of gastric ulcer healing. Upon immunohistochemical analysis, we observed a pronounced expression of COX-2, mainly in the submucosal layer. The 14-day EAF treatment also significantly increased the number of neutrophils in the gastric mucosa regeneration area. The EAF induced angiogenesis on gastric mucosa, observed as an increase of the number of blood vessels supplying the stomach in rats treated with EAF. Oral administration for 14 days of the ethyl acetate fraction from Alchornea triplinervia accelerated the healing of gastric ulcers in rats by promoting epithelial cell proliferation, increasing the number of neutrophils and stimulation of mucus production. This fraction, which contained mainly phenolic compounds, contributed to gastric mucosa healing.
Taxonomic delimitation and drivers of speciation in the Ibero‐North African Carex sect. Phacocystis river‐shore group (Cyperaceae)
Authors: Jiménez‐Mejías Pedro , Escudero Marcial , Guerra‐Cárdenas Samuel , Lye Kåre A. , Luceño Modesto
Published: October 2011

• Premise of the study: The Ibero‐North African Carex sect. Phacocystis river‐shore group is a set of perennial helophytic species with poorly defined taxonomic boundaries. In the present study, we delimited the different taxonomic units, addressed the phylogeographic history, and evaluated the drivers of differentiation that have promoted diversification of these plants.

• Methods: We analyzed molecular data using statistical parsimony for plastid sequences (26 samples from 26 populations) and principal coordinate analysis, neighbor joining, and Bayesian analysis of population structure for AFLPs (186 samples from 26 populations). Chromosome numbers from 14 samples (9 populations) are newly reported.

• Key results: Three species can be distinguished (C. acuta, C. elata, and C. reuteriana). Unexpectedly for rhizome‐growing helophytes, the vegetative reproduction detected was incidental. The widespread C. elata was found to be a genetically poorly differentiated taxon, whereas the local C. reuteriana displayed geographical structuring. Geographical factors seem to be the main driver of differentiation for both taxa.

• Conclusions: Despite apparent morphological and ecological similarities, C. elata and C. reuteriana have disparate genetic structures and evolutionary histories, which may have originated from small ecological differences. Carex elata is broadly distributed throughout Europe, and its northern populations were recently founded, probably after the last glacial maximum. In contrast, C. reuteriana is an Ibero‐North African endemic, with long‐standing populations affected by isolation and limited gene flow. It is likely that high‐density blocking effects and different gene‐flow barriers act together to delimit its distribution and promote its relatively high population differentiation.
Normes trop humaines de l'échange et forces productives incommensurables
Authors: Lantz Pierre
Published: October 2011

Résumé En présupposant un modèle où la rationalité humaine s’appliquerait aussi nécessairement que les lois de la nature, l’économie néoclassique s’est présentée comme science rigoureuse. À l’interrogation ricardienne sur les causes de la richesse (choses nécessaires à la vie) se substitue alors sa formulation comme maximum d’utilité dans un régime de concurrence absolue. Pourtant, on ne peut s’en tenir au marché pour saisir ce qui accroît la richesse effective (forces productives), ni négliger l’ambiguïté de cette notion parfois confondue avec la valeur d’usage. La définition de la richesse dépend des situations sociales et des critères de son calcul (comment produire le maximum de choses désirées ?). Ces critères sont, par définition, incalculables.