bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LLDPE/Proton Exchanged Layered Niobate K4Nb6O17 Nanocomposites
Authors: Otaguro H. , Ruvolo-Filho A.
Published: August 2012

The potassium hexaniobate was synthesized by reacting, in stoichiometric proportions, Nb2O5 and K2CO3 at 1100°C and modified with octadecylamine from an acid-base reaction. Through X-ray diffraction, an interlayer space of 4.27 nm was observed in comparison with 0.79 nm of unmodified oxide; this was also shown by SEM microscopy. The hybrid nanofiller previously obtained was incorporated into LLDPE by melt intercalation (0 up to 10 wt.%) using a twin screw extruder and LLDPE-g-MAH as compatibilizer. From TGA results, all nanocomposites (LLDPE/LLDPE-g-MAH/lamellar oxide) have increased the onset degradation temperature, while the oxide lost during processing for LLDPE/LLDPE-g-MAH/lamellar oxide nanocomposites was higher for the highest content in comparison with LLDPE matrix. According to the Eyring equation, the activation volume of the samples could be calculated using the relationship between the yield strength and strain rate from tensile stress-strain curves. The activation volume decreased with increase of nanofiller concentration, suggesting a good adhesion between the layered oxide and the polymeric matrix for high concentration. This can be attributed to the restricted segmental motion near the nanofiller/polymeric interface, while a poor interaction between them was observed for low concentration. However, the Young's modulus showed a 50% improvement for low nanofiller concentration, especially in the case of 1 wt.% of nanofiller, which was also confirmed by modulus and toughness balance. Considering all the results, it has been revealed that the proton exchanged layered niobate can improve the thermal and mechanical properties of LLDPE/LLDPE-g-MAH/lamellar oxide nanocomposites.
Modelling the Solids Throughput of Single Screw Smooth Barrel Extruders as a Function of the Feed Section Parameters
Authors: Leßmann J.-S. , Weddige R. , Schöppner V. , Porsch A.
Published: August 2012

In a smooth barrel extruder, the throughput is generally dominated by the metering sections pumping ability. Within the feed zone, more granules can always be conveyed than can melt in the compression zone and be discharged in the metering zone. At high screw speeds, this effect will only occur if the granules flow quickly enough out of the hopper into the screw channel and this is fully filled. In this case, the solids throughput up to maximum screw speed shows an approximately linear relationship to the speed. These linear solids conveying characteristics necessitate constructional changes to the hopper opening. In this article, solids conveying processes with approximately linear conveying characteristics up to speeds of 2,000 min−1 (peripheral velocities up to 3 m/s) are simulated with various feed hopper geometries. The simulations are carried out by means of DEM (Discrete Element Method) in which the granules are approximated by single spherical particles. From the simulation results, via dimensional analysis a model is derived for describing the throughput as a function of the geometry and process parameters of the solids feed zone.
Controllable Self-organization of Polyphenylene Oxide Honeycomb Microstructure
Authors: Chen H. , Shang X. , Zhang D. , Hagiwara I.
Published: August 2012

Polymer films with patterned microstructure have been widely applied in various industrial areas such as micro reactors, chemical sensors and micro-molded template etc. In this paper, a self-supporting polymer film with regular honeycomb microstructure is fabricated by self-organization via evaporation of polyphenylene oxide (PPO) solution in which carbon disulfide is used as solvent under humid ambience. Apart from investigation of self-organization mechanism of PPO honeycomb including nucleation, growth of water droplets condensed upon liquid supporting substrate, the quantitative relationship between honeycomb microstructure and ambient conditions is built through tremendous self-organization experiments. The controllable formation of honeycomb microstructure with desirable hydrophobicity was achieved by use of built quantitative relationship. Moreover, hydrophobicity mathematical model of self-organized honeycomb thin film was proposed, and its validation was experimentally verified.
Status of Noise Pollution in Mixed Areas of Dhaka City: a GIS Approach
Authors: Haq MA , Islam MM , Ali MS , Haque MF , Akhand MMR
Published: August 2012

Noise pollution is one of the most harmful pollution. Uncontrolled noise of Dhaka city has made a serious and vulnerable  situation for the dwellers. Mixed areas are used in multidimensional ways so the degree and intensity of noise pollution is often  higher. In this regard, this study has been framed to explore the nature and vulnerability of noise pollution in mixed areas as well  as to realize its impacts using GIS approach. Accordingly, an investigation has been carried out employing different field  techniques in Ramna area which is a mixed area in nature and important part of the city. This study put an effort to determine the  level of noise pollution and its zone of influence to know how far noise is affecting the socio-environment of the study area. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i1.11548 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(1): 09-17, 2012
Antihyperglycemic and Antihyperlipidemic of Karala (Momordica charantia) Fruits in Streptozotocin Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Hossain MA , Mostofa M , Debnath D , Alam AKMR , Yasmin Z , Moitry NF
Published: August 2012

To investigate the antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic effect of Momordica charantia (Karala), the aqueous extract of the Karala fruit was tested on streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Thirty six albino rats were used in the experiment, 30 diabetic and the remaining six as negative control (T1). Diabetes was induced by administering (injecting) STZ at dose of 55mg/kg body weight. Thirty diabetic animals were randomly divided into five groups such as diabetic control group (T2) without any application of treatment, and groups T3,T4,T5 and T6 were treated with aqueous extract of Karala fruits daily at the doses of 250,    500 and 750mg/kg and glibenclamide (at a dose of 5mg/kg body weight) respectively. The body weight was taken and blood samples were collected from individual animal to determine glucose levels at 15 day interval up to 90 days. In addition, Asparate  Transaminenase(AST), Alanine Transaminenase(ALT), Alkaline Phosphatase(ALP), Total cholesterol (TCh) and Triglyceride (TGA) were determined at day 15 and at the end of the experiment. All three doses of Karala extracts reduced diabetic induced blood sugar and the reduction is comparable with standard glibenclamide (GLM) dose particularly with higher doses Karala extracts (500 and 750mg). Karala also prevented body weight loss due to induced diabetes as did by GLM treatment.. The treatment also resulted in a significant reduction of Asparate Transaminenase(AST), Alanine Transaminenase(ALT), Alkaline Phosphatase(ALP), Total cholesterol (TCh) and Triglyceride (TGA) activities of treated rats when compared to the STZ induced  diabetic rats. Higher doses of Karala (500 and 750mg/kg) are as effective as standard GLM dose on measured variables. This study demonstrated that Karala has hyperglycemia and antihyperlipidemic effect against STZ induced diabetic rats. These findings open the possibility of using Karala extract to treat diabetic animal and human patients although further research is warranted. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i1.11550 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(1): 29 - 37, 2012
Growth Performance Meat Yield and Profitability of Broiler Chickens Fed Diets Incorporating Cassava Tuber Meal
Authors: Sultana F , Ali MA , Jahan I
Published: August 2012

A total of sixty, 14-day old broiler chickens (Cobb-500) of either sex were used in this study to assess the effects of processed cassava tuber meals (0, 15, 30, and 45 gkg-1) on growth responses, meat yield, and profitability of boilers; rearing from day 14 to day 33 of ages. The experimental diets were iso-caloric and iso-nitrogenous in nature, and were supplied the broilers ad libitum throughout the trial period. Broilers fed on control diet (i.e. exclusion of CTM) achieved higher (P<0.01) body weight, while the broilers offered diets with the highest amount (45 gkg-1) of CTM had the lowest body weight. Increased (P<0.01) feed intake was observed in the treatments of 21 d and 28 days of age when broilers fed diets with the supplementation of CTM, but no significant differences was found among the dietary treatments in the feed consumption of the broilers during 33 day of age. FCR differed significantly (P<.01) throughout the trial period, broilers fed diets without supplementation of CTM had the superior FCR than the others. Mortality was unaffected by all the dietary treatment groups. Moreover, different body parts (feather, head, neck, wing, viscera) and meat yields (thigh, drumstick, breast, back, giblet, dressing) were not influenced by treatments. Live weights were unaffected by all the dietary groups with/without incorporation of cassava tuber meals (CTM) up to day 21 and day 28 of  ages. Statistically significant (P<0.01) decreased live weight was observed among the treatments in 33-day old birds DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i1.11552 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(1): 47- 53, 2012
Development of Functional Beverage Based on Taste Preference
Authors: Bhuiyan MHR , Shams-Ud-Din M , Islam MN
Published: August 2012

The experiment was conducted to develop functional beverage based on taste preference and studied its storage life. 32 full factorial design was used to identify significant factor and base formulation. The one factor at a time optimization method was used to optimize formulation. The study showed that sweetness, sourness and their interaction have significant effect on overall acceptability in the development of functional beverage. Optimal combination per liter of functional beverage for men was found to be 73 mg saccharin and 30 ml of lime juice. For women, however, the optimal combination of each liter of functional beverage was 60 mg saccharin and 47.5 ml lime juice. Honey, garlic paste, black cumin seed powder, Sodium-benzoate, ascorbic acid, annatto color, citral, methyl phenyl acetate and water was common ingredients. Organoleptic taste test indicated that men and women preferred sweet and sour beverage respectively. TSS and pH showed linear whereas acidity and vitamin C concentration showed inverse relation with storage period. The RFT (4±1°C) storage ensured better retention of chemical and sensory properties than RMT (30±2°C) storage. Significant storage (RFT) life of functional beverage for men and women was 5 to 6 and 4 to 5 months, respectively. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i1.11558 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(1): 83 - 87, 2012
Variability and Trend of Monthly Climatic Variables in Dinajpur District
Authors: Syeda JA
Published: August 2012

An attempt was made to investigate the monthly variability and trend for 20 climatic variables of Dinajpur district for 1948-2004. The variety of exploratory data analyses (EDA) tools and different robust and nonrobust measures were used for the analyses. The positive rates of total rainfall were fairly high in February, April, May, October and December where the residuals follow nonnormal and stationary but significant positive rate is documented only in September (+ 4.22*). The rate of growth of average cloud was documented less negative for August (- 0.0006) but significant positive for rest of the months. The rates of total frequency of insignificant rainfall were recognized approximately significant negative for April (- 0.035) and significant negative for May (- 0.069*) and September (- 0.079*), and the fairly high negative rates were accounted in February and December with nonnormal residual. Historical climatic data needs exploratory analysis and warrants tougher justification in classical analyses for outlier and residuals nonnormality and nonstationarity. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i1.11559 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(1): 89-98, 2012
Effect of Seed Category as Affected by Bipolaris sorokiniana on the Germination of Wheat Seeds
Authors: Sultana A , Rashid AQMB
Published: August 2012

An experiment was conducted under in-vitro condition to determine the effect of wheat seed categories such as healthy looking, blackpointed and shriveled as affected by Bipolaris sorokiniana on the germination of wheat seeds. The work was done in the   laboratory of Seed Pathology Center, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh during 2010-11. The highest prevalence   65%) of B. sorokiniana was recorded in shriveled seeds, (42%) was recorded in blackpointed seeds, and (30%) was associated  with healthy looking seeds. The pathogen was responsible for the highest germination failure (87%) found in the category of   shriveled seeds and then (35%) was found in blackpointed seeds while the healthy looking seeds showed (24%) germination  failure. The result suggests that, the shriveled and blackpointed seed samples must be rejected, and after proper seed health test in an only the healthy looking seeds may be recommended for sowing through proper seed treatment. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i1.11563 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(1): 113 - 116, 2012
Effect of Seed-borne Fungi on the Germinating Seeds and their Bio-control in Maize
Authors: Debnath M , Sultana A , Rashid AQMB
Published: August 2012

An experiment was conducted in Seed Pathology Center, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh to determine the efficacy of biocontrol means (BAU-Biofungicide, Garlic extract and Neem extract) in controlling seedborne fungal diseases of maize (Zea mays). In laboratory experiment, the seeds of maize cultivars cv. Badsha-1, Khai Bhutta, Bornali, Mohor, BARI Bhutta- 5 and BARI Bhutta- 6 were tested by blotter method. The identified  fungi associated with the seeds were A. niger, A. flavus, Fusarium sp., P. oxalicum, C. lunata and R. stolonifer. The seed samples were treated with BAU-Biofungicide @ 2.5% of seed weight, neem extract@ 1:2 w/v and 1:3 w/v and garlic extract @ 1:2 w/v and 1:3 w/v to control the seed-borne pathogens. The effective results were recorded as regards to the highest germination (84.5%) reflected the lowest disease incidence (4.0%) recorded in BAUBiofungicide treated seeds followed by other treatment. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i1.11564 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(1): 117 - 120, 2012
Influence of Soil Amendments on Mitigating Methane Emissions and Sustaining Rice Productivity in Paddy Soil Ecosystems of Bangladesh
Authors: Ali MA , Farouque MG , Haque M , Ul Kabir Abid
Published: August 2012

Two field experiments were conducted at two different rice ecosystems, one in the upland rice field of Bangladesh Agricultural University farm, Mymensingh and the another one in the low lying area of Bhaluka, Mymensingh to investigate the effects of soil amendments on mitigation of methane emissions and sustaining rice productivity. The experimental treatments were urea (250 kg ha-1), urea plus coal ash (1t ha-1), urea plus phosphogypsum (90 kg ha-1), urea plus silicate fertilizer (150 kg ha-1), ammonium sulphate 400 kg ha-1, ammonium sulphate plus silicate fertilizer (150 kg ha-1), urea (25% less than the recommended doze) plus cyanobacteria plus azolla (1t ha-1). In case of BAU upland rice field, the total seasonal CH4 emission was decreased by 12-21% and rice grain yield was increased by 4.0- 18.0% respectively, whereas 11.0-26.0% reduction in total CH4 emission and 4.5-24.0% increase in rice grain yield was recorded from the low lying rice field of Bhaluka with the application of soil amendments. Among  the amendments silicate fertilization with urea and silicate in combination with ammonium sulphate reduced total CH4 flux by 18- 23% and 21-26% respectively, whereas rice grain yield was increased by 18-24% and 16-18%, respectively in both ecosystems. Although maximum reduction in total seasonal CH4 flux was recorded with silicate and sulfate of ammonia amendment in paddy soil, however soil acidity was developed which might affect soil fertility and rice productivity in the future. Therefore, silicate fertilizer could be introduced with the nitrogenous fertilizer sources, preferably with 50% urea plus 50% ammonium sulphate for  reducing CH4 emissions and increasing rice productivity under both irrigated upland and lowland rice field ecosystems. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i1.11574 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(1): 179 - 185, 2012
Effect of Various Factors on the Development of Leaf Spot Disease in Mulberry
Authors: Ghosh L , Neela FA , Mahal MF , Khatun MJ , Ali MR
Published: August 2012

Effect of various factors such as temperature, relative humidity, balanced fertilizer and plant spacing on the development of leaf  spot disease in mulberry caused by Cercospora moricola was studied. High disease development was recorded in the month of August and September when outdoor temperature and relative humidity were 25-30 ºC and above 80%, respectively. Application of balanced fertilizer and plant spacing on this disease development was also studied and showed a distinct effect on severity of this disease. A balanced dose application of NPK fertilizer decreased disease severity to 6-8%. Balanced fertilizer application in the soil resulted lower infection by leaf pathogen in comparison with imbalanced fertilizer application in the soil. Disease development was also found to be high at close plant spacing (60 × 60) cm than distance spacing (90 × 90) cm. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i1.11583 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(1): 205 - 209, 2012
Effect of Different Fertilizer Management on Soil Properties and Yield of Fine Rice Cultivar
Authors: Islam MR , Sikder S , Bahadur MM , Hafiz MHR
Published: August 2012

The experiment was conducted at the Research Farm of Crop Physiology and Ecology Department, Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University, Dinajpur during 14 August to 7 December, 2008 to study the effect of (different organic and  inorganic) fertilizer management on soil properties and yield of five fine rice cultivars viz., Rajshahi swarna, Silkumul, Kataribhog, Lal pajam and Sanla. The experiment was laid out in a split plot design with three replications. For post harvest soil, bulk density and pH gradually decreased in organic fertilizer management compared to inorganic fertilizer management. But percent organic carbon (0.68 to 0.80%) and organic matter (1.19 to 1.37%) of soil increased in organic management compared to inorganic management (0.53 to 0.66% and 0.91 to 1.14%, respectively). All the cultivars gave some-what better yield under inorganic management where the yield variation was minimum between organic and inorganic management. Conversely, organic culture had beneficial effects in improving soil properties and the sustainable agriculture mostly depends on soil organic matter.  This organic matter will remain stable by using organic fertilizer. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i1.11588 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(1): 239-242, 2012
Effects of Pre-drying Chemical Treatments on Quality of Cabinet Dried Tomato Powder
Authors: Mozumder NHMR , Rahman MA , Kamal MS , Mustafa AKM , Rahman MS
Published: August 2012

The focus of this research was to analyze the yield, physico-chemical and nutritional quality of a cabinet dried tomato powder as affected by three (3) chemical treatments (KMS, CaCl2 and both). Dehydration process was carried out using a cabinet dryer at a constant air flow velocity of 0.7 m/s and air temperature in the range of 60-65oC based on preliminary tests by dipping in 0.2% (w/w) potassium metabisulphite (T1) and 1% (w/w) calcium chloride (T2) independently and 1% (w/w) calcium chloride (CaCl2) along with 0.2% (w/w) potassium metabisulphite (KMS) in water solution (T3) for 10 minutes. The effect of 3 pre-drying treatments on quality of cabinet dried tomato powder was analyzed by determining moisture content, rehydration ratio, total sugar, total acidity, fat, protein, ash, crude fiber, pH, total caroteniods, vitamin-C, minerals (calcium, iron, phosphorus) and sensory analysis. The results expressed that the treatment T3 achieved the highest yield of tomato powder (4.6 g/100 g). The control sample showed highest moisture content (6.9 g/100 g) and dipping in 1% CaCl2 along with 0.2% KMS presented the lowest moisture content (5.9 g/100 g). Sample T3 showed highest total sugar content (49.1 g/100 g). The study also depicted that the total carotenoids content in tomato powder was 0.21 mg/100 g which was lower than that of fresh tomato (2.1 mg/100 g). Micronutrients such as vitamin-C, Calcium, phosphorus and iron were found to be 35.30 mg/100 g, 336.72 mg/100 g, 105 mg/100g and 12.23 mg/100 g, respectively in case for T3 sample. Sensory analysis (color, texture, flavor and overall acceptability) of tomato powder was carried out by trained and untrained panelists and their interpretation was done by using statistical ANOVA Test. There was no significant difference between control and treated samples regarding to their texture, flavor and overall acceptability but significant difference was observed in case of color. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i1.11590 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(1): 253-265, 2012
Effect of Sowing Patterns and Nitrogen Rates on Quality Traits and Yield of Wheat
Authors: Alam MS
Published: August 2012

The experiment was conducted to study the effect of sowing patterns and N rates on quality traits and yield of wheat. The experiment consisted of two methods of sowing viz.; conventional sowing (S1) and bed sowing (S2) and four wheat varieties namely; Protiva (V1), Sourav (V2), Shatabdi (V3) and Prodip (V4) and four levels of nitrogen viz; 0 (N1), 60 (N2), 110 (N3) and 160 (N4) kg N ha-1. Grain yield was higher in bed planting system than conventional one due to improvement in yield components. Grain yield was increased with increasing rates of nitrogen application. Prodip produced the highest grain yield with 160 Kg N ha-1. The highest grain yield was found with the combination of bed sowing method and 160 Kg N ha-1 and the lowest one was recorded with the combination of conventional method at control treatment. Nitrogen and Protein content in grain and straw varied significantly due to method of sowing. The highest nitrogen and protein content in grain and straw were recorded in bed planting system. Nitrogen content of grain was highest at 160 Kg N ha-1.The overall results indicate that among the varieties Prodip showed better performance in bed planting system. Prodip gave maximum grain yield at 160 Kg N ha-1 in bed planting system. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i1.11591 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(1): 267-272, 2012
Dietary Intake of Arsenic by Households in Marua Village in Jessore
Authors: Tani M , Jahiruddin M , Egashira K , Kurosawa K , Moslehuddin AZM , Rahman MZ
Published: August 2012

Arsenic (As) consumption through foods by adults and children in the As contaminated Marua village of Chowgacha upazila under Jessore district was studied. The Asian Arsenic Network (AAN) and the Japanese International Cooperation  Agency (JICA) have provided some interventions such as installation of deep tube-wells and As-Fe removal plants and awareness program to reduce drinking water As exposure of people living in the village. But scope exists for food crops grown in this area to accumulate As from As contaminated irrigation water. With these points in view, a household food survey was made to investigate As intake by the people living in Marua village. For it, cooked meals and uncooked foods were collected from households and local market. The study revealed that an adult consumed 220 ?g As per day from food source and rice alone contributed 86% of it. Considering 80% inorganic As in rice, 220 ?g total As is equivalent to 176 ?g  As which exceeds the WHOs provisional maximum tolerable daily intake of As which is 2 ?g/kg body weight i.e. 120 ?g  As for a 60 kg person. This result suggests that next to drinking water, food (mainly rice) is the principal source of As entry into human body in Bangladesh. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i1.11593 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(1): 283-288, 2012
Prospect of Solid Waste Situation and An Approach of Environmental Management Measure (EMM) Model for Sustainable Solid Waste Management: Case Study of Dhaka City
Authors: Bahauddin KM , Uddin MH
Published: August 2012

Environmental Management Measure (EMM) model will be a well-designed approach for sustainable and effective solid waste management in Dhaka city. Environmental Management Measure (EMM) model has three instruments such as economic, regulatory and suasive which proposed in this paper. This paper discusses the situation of solid waste in Dhaka city as well as it offers environmental policy recommendations to concerned authorities including effective instruments to minimize the polluting behavior of individuals and industries and to recover the cost of pollution in the city. To improve solid waste management in Dhaka city, a combination of economic, regulatory and suasive instrument are recommended. The findings of the study will be helpful for policy maker, planner, implementer and other stakeholders towards adopting more effective strategy for management of solid waste in Dhaka city. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i1.11601 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(1): 99 - 111, 2012
Changes in Habitat Structure May Explain Decrease in Reintroduced Mohor Gazelle Population in the Guembeul Fauna Reserve, Senegal
Authors: Moreno Eulalia , Sane Abibou , Benzal Jesús , Ibáñez Belén , Sanz-Zuasti Joaquín , Espeso Gerardo
Published: August 2012

Reintroduction is a widespread method for saving populations of endangered species from extinction. In spite of recent reviews, it is difficult to reach general conclusions about its value as a conservation tool, as authors are reluctant to publish unsuccessful results. The Mohor gazelle is a North African gazelle, extinct in the wild. Eight individuals were reintroduced in Senegal in 1984. The population grew progressively, albeit slowly, during the first 20 years after release, but then declined dramatically, until the population in 2009 was estimated at no more than 13–15 individuals. This study attempts to determine the likelihood of gazelle-habitat relationships to explain why the size of the gazelle population has diminished. Our results show that the Mohor gazelle in Guembeul is found in open habitats with less developed canopy where the grass is shorter, suggesting the possibility that changes in habitat structure have taken place during the time the gazelles have been in the Reserve, reducing the amount of suitable habitat. Reintroduction design usually concentrates on short-term factors that may affect survival of the released animals and their descendants (short-term achievement), while the key factors for assessing its success may be those that affect the long-term evolution of the population.
Spatio-Temporal Variability of Western Central African Convection from Infrared Observations
Authors: Vondou Derbetini A.
Published: August 2012

The present study has used Meteosat infrared brightness temperature images to investigate the regional and interannual variability of Central African cloudiness. Spatial and temporal variability were investigated using half–hourly data from the Meteosat-7 during June–July–August (JJA) of 1998–2002. The full domain of study (1.5E–17E, 1N–15N) was divided into six regions and statistics in each region were derived. Analysis of the dependence of cloud fraction to the brightness temperature threshold is explored both over land and ocean. Three diurnal cycle regimes (continental, oceanic, and coastal) are depicted according to the amplitude and peak time. Over regions of relatively flat terrain, results indicate enhancement of deep convection in the afternoon followed by a gradual decrease in the night. The diurnal cycle of convection is characterised by afternoon and early evening (around 15:00–18:00 LST) maxima located mainly downwind of the major mountain chains, and a more rapid nighttime decay. In terms of the harmonic amplitude, the diurnal signal shows significant regional contrast with the strongest manifestation over the Adamaoua Plateau and the weakest near the South Cameroon Plateau. This remarkable spatial dependence is clear evidence of orographic and heterogeneous land-surface impacts on convective development. Oceanic region exhibits weak activity of convective cloudiness with a maximum at noon. It is suggested that daytime heating of the land surface and moist environment may play a role in determining the spatial distribution of cloud fraction. This study further demonstrates the importance of the Cameroon coastline concavity and coastal mountains in regulating regional frequencies of convection and their initialization. The strength of the diurnal cycle of convective activity depends on mountain height, mean flow, coastal geometry.
Wavelet q-Fisher Information for Scaling Signal Analysis
Authors: Ramírez-Pacheco Julio , Torres-Román Deni , Argaez-Xool Jesús , Rizo-Dominguez Luis , Trejo-Sanchez Joel , Manzano-Pinzón Francisco
Published: August 2012

Abstract: This article first introduces the concept of wavelet q-Fisher information and then derives a closed-form expression of this quantifier for scaling signals of parameter α. It is shown that this information measure appropriately describes the complexities of scaling signals and provides further analysis flexibility with the parameter q. In the limit of q → 1, wavelet q-Fisher information reduces to the standard wavelet Fisher information and for q > 2 it reverses its behavior. Experimental results on synthesized fGn signals validates the level-shift detection capabilities of wavelet q-Fisher information. A comparative study also shows that wavelet q-Fisher information locates structural changes in correlated and anti-correlated fGn signals in a way comparable with standard breakpoint location techniques but at a fraction of the time. Finally, the application of this quantifier to H.263 encoded video signals is presented.
Household Biogas Digesters—A Review
Authors: Rajendran Karthik , Aslanzadeh Solmaz , Taherzadeh Mohammad J.
Published: August 2012

This review is a summary of different aspects of the design and operation of small-scale, household, biogas digesters. It covers different digester designs and materials used for construction, important operating parameters such as pH, temperature, substrate, and loading rate, applications of the biogas, the government policies concerning the use of household digesters, and the social and environmental effects of the digesters. Biogas is a value-added product of anaerobic digestion of organic compounds. Biogas production depends on different factors including: pH, temperature, substrate, loading rate, hydraulic retention time (HRT), C/N ratio, and mixing. Household digesters are cheap, easy to handle, and reduce the amount of organic household waste. The size of these digesters varies between 1 and 150 m3. The common designs include fixed dome, floating drum, and plug flow type. Biogas and fertilizer obtained at the end of anaerobic digestion could be used for cooking, lighting, and electricity.
Oxidative Response and Antioxidative Mechanism in Germinating Soybean Seeds Exposed to Cadmium
Authors: Yang Shiyong , Xie Jianchun , Li Quanfa
Published: August 2012

Seeds of soybean (Glycine max L.) exposed to 50 mg/L (Cd50), 100 mg/L (Cd100) and 200 mg/L (Cd200) cadmium solution for 24, 48, 72 and 96 h were examined with reference to Cd accumulation, oxidative stress and antioxidative responses. Soybean seeds accumulated Cd in an exposure time-and dosage-dependent manner. FRAP (ferric reducing ability of plasma) concentration, GSH/hGSH content, and GST activity showed a pronounced exposure time-dependent response. Cd100 enhanced FRAP concentration in germinating soybean seeds as compared to Cd50 treatment after 24 h exposure. Cd200 however increased statistically GST activities after 72 and 96 h exposure. Under all Cd dosages, GSH/hGSH concentrations were depressed with increasing exposure time. Reduction of GSH/hGSH content and concomitant increase of GST activity suggested a possible participation of GSH into GSH-Cd conjugates synthesis. MDA content is a potential biomarker for monitoring Cd phytotoxicity because it responds significantly to treatment dosage, exposure time and dosage ´ exposure time interaction. Increase of proline content may be a response to acute heavy metal toxicity in soybean seeds.
Development and Optimization of a Thrombin Sandwich Aptamer Microarray
Authors: Meneghello Anna , Sosic Alice , Antognoli Agnese , Cretaio Erica , Gatto Barbara
Published: August 2012

A sandwich microarray employing two distinct aptamers for human thrombin has been optimized for the detection of subnanomolar concentrations of the protein. The aptamer microarray demonstrates high specificity for thrombin, proving that a two-site binding assay with the TBA1 aptamer as capture layer and the TBA2 aptamer as detection layer can ensure great specificity at times and conditions compatible with standard routine analysis of biological samples. Aptamer microarray sensitivity was evaluated directly by fluorescent analysis employing Cy5-labeled TBA2 and indirectly by the use of TBA2-biotin followed by detection with fluorescent streptavidin. Sub-nanomolar LODs were reached in all cases and in the presence of serum, demonstrating that the optimized aptamer microarray can identify thrombin by a low-cost, sensitive and specific method.
The Effect of Diluted Penetration Enhancer in Nebulized Mist versus Liquid Drop Preparation Forms on Retrobulbar Blood Flow in Healthy Human Subjects
Authors: Primus Sally , Januleviciene Ingrida , Siesky Brent , Gerber Austin , Egan Patrick , Amireskandari Annahita , Siaudvytyte Lina , Barsauskaite Ruta , Harris Alon
Published: August 2012

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of nebulized mist and liquid drop applications on retrobulbar blood flow. A prospective, non-randomized clinical trial was used to collect data from 40 healthy human eyes. Color Doppler Imaging determined peak systolic (PSV) and end diastolic (EDV) blood flow velocities and resistance index (RI) in the ophthalmic artery after both applications. Measurements were taken at baseline and at 1 min post-treatment in both eyes with 5 min measurements in the treatment eye only. p values ≤ 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Mist application to treatment eye produced an increase in 1 min and 5 min PSV and EDV (0.001 < p < 0.03) and a decrease in 5 min RI (p = 0.01), with no significant changes in PSV, EDV or RI of control eye or in treatment eye 1 min RI (p > 0.05). Drop application to treatment eye produced an increase in PSV (p < 0.001) and EDV (p = 0.01) at 1 min, with an increase in control eye 1 min PSV and EDV (p = 0.03). There were no statistically significant changes in treatment eye PSV, EDV and RI after 5 min (p > 0.05). The use of nebulized mist may provide an effective alternative to liquid drop medication application.
Fully Integrated Biochip Platforms for Advanced Healthcare
Authors: Carrara Sandro , Ghoreishizadeh Sara , Olivo Jacopo , Taurino Irene , Baj-Rossi Camilla , Cavallini Andrea , Op de Beeck Maaike , Dehollain Catherine , Burleson Wayne , Moussy Francis Gabriel , Guiseppi-Elie Anthony , De Micheli Giovanni
Published: August 2012

Recent advances in microelectronics and biosensors are enabling developments of innovative biochips for advanced healthcare by providing fully integrated platforms for continuous monitoring of a large set of human disease biomarkers. Continuous monitoring of several human metabolites can be addressed by using fully integrated and minimally invasive devices located in the sub-cutis, typically in the peritoneal region. This extends the techniques of continuous monitoring of glucose currently being pursued with diabetic patients. However, several issues have to be considered in order to succeed in developing fully integrated and minimally invasive implantable devices. These innovative devices require a high-degree of integration, minimal invasive surgery, long-term biocompatibility, security and privacy in data transmission, high reliability, high reproducibility, high specificity, low detection limit and high sensitivity. Recent advances in the field have already proposed possible solutions for several of these issues. The aim of the present paper is to present a broad spectrum of recent results and to propose future directions of development in order to obtain fully implantable systems for the continuous monitoring of the human metabolism in advanced healthcare applications.
Psychosocial Aspects of Cancer Need Integration into the Treatment Trajectory—But How?
Authors: Johansen C. , Rosberger Z.
Published: August 2012

There is a growing need to discern how health care systems in general and the oncology “world” in particular will care for cancer survivors. In all industrialized countries, the number of cancer survivors is growing exponentially. [...]
Tobacco and Health: With or Without Pictures, Nothing Redeems Smoking
Authors: Touyz Louis Z.G.
Published: August 2012

Tobacco, derived from flu-cured leaves of Nicotiana tabacum, a herb native to South America, was introduced by Sir Walter Raleigh to Europe from the Americas in the 17th century. From about 1680, tobacco use became a global, common, and legal habit, with smoking, chewing, or snuffing all assumed to be innocent for more than 200 years.
Liver Transplantation for Symptomatic Liver Metastases of Neuroendocrine Tumours
Authors: Chan G. , Kocha W. , Reid R. , Taqi A. , Wall W. , Quan D.
Published: August 2012

Numerous reports have demonstrated that liver transplantation for neuroendocrine tumour metastasis is feasible. However, perioperative risks and long-term recurrences remain significant concerns. When liver transplantation is combined with extensive intestinal or pancreatic resection, the risk is particularly high. We report our institutional experience of liver transplantations performed for liver metastases secondary to neuroendocrine tumours, and in combination with a review of the literature, we propose a set of selection criteria. The key points include unresectable hepatic metastases of neuroendocrine origin, absence of extrahepatic metastases, symptomatic disease that is refractory to medical therapy, a Ki-67 level less than 2%, previous resection of the primary disease, and previous therapy for metastatic neuroendocrine tumour. In our experience, the patient in the first case had, post-transplantation, rapid disease progression because of an unidentified primary, and patient in the second case had primary non-function of the liver graft, requiring urgent re-transplantation. More recently, two liver transplantations were successfully performed. The indications were, in the first case, refractory hormonal secretion and, in the other, secondary biliary cirrhosis attributable to hepatic artery therapy with tumour in situ. Subclinical and stable recurrent disease has been detected by scintigraphy in the mesentery and lumbar spine in the former patient. A mesenteric recurrence developed in the latter patient 2 years post transplantation and was subsequently completely resected. At 4 and 5 years post transplantation, both patients are symptom-free. Recurrence after transplantation remains a significant concern, even with careful patient selection, but recurrences may remain indolent. If recurrences are progressive, they may still be amenable to additional medical or surgical therapy. A national or international consensus between oncologists and transplant specialists regarding the indications for liver transplantation is vital, because future progress will depend on careful patient selection and prospective study.
Outcomes of Women with Early-Stage Breast Cancer Receiving Adjuvant Trastuzumab
Authors: Seal M.D. , Speers C.H. , O’Reilly S. , Gelmon K.A. , Ellard S.L. , Chia S.K.
Published: August 2012

Introduction: Large randomized trials assessing the benefit of adjuvant trastuzumab in early-stage breast cancer positive for the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (her2) have demonstrated a significant improvement in survival. The objective of the present study was to describe the outcomes of women who received adjuvant trastuzumab for her2-positive breast cancer in British Columbia since publicly funded population-based use was initiated in July 2005. Methods: Women from British Columbia, newly diagnosed with stage i–iii breast cancer between July 2004 and December 2006, who were positive for her2 overexpression by immunohistochemistry (3+) or amplification by fluorescence in situ hybridization (ratio ≥ 2.0) were included in the study. Data were collected from the prospectively assembled BC Cancer Agency Outcomes Unit, with cases linked to the provincial pharmacy data repository to determine the proportion of women who received adjuvant trastuzumab. Results: Our retrospective study identified 703 her2-positive patients, of whom 480 (68%) received trastuzumab. In patients receiving trastuzumab, the 2-year relapse-free survival was 96.1% [95% confidence interval (CI): 93.6% to 97.7%] and the overall survival was 99.3% (95% CI: 97.9% to 99.8%). Among node-negative and -positive patients, the 2-year relapse-free survival was 97.8% and 94.8% respectively (p = 0.09) for the trastuzumab-treated group and 90.9% and 77.3% (p = 0.01) for the group not receiving trastuzumab (n = 223). Site of first distant metastasis was the central nervous system in 19.5% of the entire cohort and in 37.5% of patients treated with trastuzumab. Discussion: This population-based analysis of adjuvant trastuzumab use among Canadian women demonstrates highly favorable outcomes at the 2-year follow-up.
Outcomes of Accelerated Hypofractionated Radiotherapy in Stage i Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Yung T. , Giuliani M.E. , Le L.W. , Sun A. , Cho B.C.J. , Bezjak A. , Brade A. , Hope A.J.
Published: August 2012

Purpose: Outcomes after treatment with accelerated hypofractionated radiotherapy in stage i medically inoperable non-small-cell lung cancer (nsclc) patients were determined. Methods: Our single-institution retrospective review looked at medically inoperable patients with T1–2N0M0 nsclc treated with accelerated hypofractionated curative-intent radiotherapy between 1999 and 2009. Patients were staged mainly by computed tomography imaging of chest and abdomen, bone scan, and computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging of brain. Positron-emission tomography (pet) staging was performed in 6 patients. Medical charts were reviewed to determine demographics, radiotherapy details, sites of failure, toxicity (as defined by the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events, version 3.0) and vital status. The cumulative incidence of local and distant failure was calculated. Overall (os) and cause-specific (css) survival were estimated by the Kaplan–Meier method. Result: In the 60 patients treated during the study period, the dose regimens were 50 Gy in 20 fractions (n = 6), 55 Gy in 20 fractions (n = 8), 60 Gy in 20 fractions (n = 42), and 60 Gy in 25 fractions (n = 4). All patients were treated once daily. The median follow-up was 27 months (range: 4–94 months). The os rates at 2 and 5 years were 61% [95% confidence interval (ci): 50% to 75%] and 19% (95% ci: 10% to 34%) respectively. The css rates at 2 and 5 years were 79% (95% ci: 68% to 91%) and 39% (95% ci: 24% to 63%) respectively. The cumulative incidence of local failure was 20% at 5 years. The cumulative incidence of distant failure was 28% at 5 years. No patients experienced grade 3 or greater pneumonitis or esophagitis. Conclusions: Accelerated hypofractionated regimens are well tolerated and provide good local control in medically inoperable patients with stage i nsclc. Such regimens may be a reasonable treatment alternative when stereotactic body radiation therapy is not feasible.
Optimal Prophylactic and Definitive Therapy for Bicalutamide-Induced Gynecomastia: Results of a Meta-analysis
Authors: Tunio M.A. , Al-Asiri M. , Al-Amro A. , Bayoumi Y. , Fareed M.
Published: August 2012

Objective: Bicalutamide is approved as an adjuvant to primary treatments (radical prostatectomy or radiotherapy) or as monotherapy in men with locally advanced, nonmetastatic prostate cancer (pca). However, this treatment induces gynecomastia in most patients, which often results in treatment discontinuation. Optimal therapy for these breast events is not known so far. We undertook a meta-analysis to assess the efficacy of various treatment options for bicalutamide-induced gynecomastia. Methods: The medline, cancerlit, and Cochrane library databases were searched and the Google search engine was used to identify prospective and retrospective controlled studies published in English from January 2000 to December 2010 comparing prophylactic or curative treatment options with a control group (no treatment) for pca patients who developed bicalutamide-induced gynecomastia. Radiotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity was also evaluated. Results: The search identified nine controlled trials with a total patient population of 1573. Pooled results from prophylactic trials showed a significant reduction of gynecomastia in pca patients treated with prophylactic tamoxifen 20 mg daily (odds ratio: 0.06; 95% confidence interval: 0.05 to 0.09; p = 0.09), and pooled results from treatment trials showed a significant response of gynecomastia to definitive radiotherapy (odds ratio: 0.06; 95% confidence interval: 0.01 to 0.24; p < 0.0001). Aromatase inhibitors and weekly tamoxifen were not found to be effective as prophylactic and curative options. For the radiotherapy, skin-to-heart distance was found to be an important risk factor for cardiotoxicity (p = 0.006). A funnel plot of the meta-analysis showed significant heterogeneity (Egger test p < 0.00001) because of low sample size. Conclusions: Our meta-analysis suggests using prophylactic tamoxifen 20 mg daily as the first-line preventive measure and radiotherapy as the first-line treatment option for bicalutamide-induced gynecomastia. Aromatase inhibitors and weekly tamoxifen are not recommended.
Occult Cause of Paraneoplastic Acanthosis Nigricans in a Patient with Known Breast Dcis: Case and Review
Authors: Jakubovic B.D. , Sawires H.F. , Adam D.N.
Published: August 2012

Paraneoplastic acanthosis nigricans (pan ) is an infrequently encountered cutaneous manifestation of internal malignancy. Here, we describe a case of pan in the setting of a known breast ductal carcinoma in situ, which, to our knowledge, had not been described in association with pan. As a result, thorough investigation was undertaken to search for another concurrent neoplasm that would better explain the development of pan. In so doing, we identified a coexisting metastatic cholangiocarcinoma. We thus conclude that when pan is observed in an uncommon association with a known malignancy, further investigation should be undertaken to explore whether a more likely occult culprit exists.