bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microbial load in tannery and textile effluents and their receiving rivers of Dhaka
Authors: Das Monika , Ahmed Md Kawser , Begum Fauzia , Parveen Sahana , Islam Md Monirul , Begum Mahmuda
Published: November 2011

The present study was undertaken to investigate the occurrence of some selected microorganisms in industrial effluents and in the river Buriganga and Karnatoli, which receive the industrial effluents directly from industries, with a view to evaluate the effect of industrial effluents on river. The total viable bacterial count (TVBC) in both tannery and textile effluents were slightly higher in dry season than those of rainy and summer. The TVBC in Buriganga River ranged from 3.4 × 105 to 9.6 × 105, 2.2 × 104 to 1.2 × 105 and 7.2 × 104 to 4.5 × 105 cfu/ml in dry, rainy and summer seasons, respectively, and the TVBC in Karnatoli River ranged from 4.9 × 105 to 5.4 ×106, 1.2 × 105 to 1.0 × 105 and 5.3 × 104 to 3.8 × 105 cfu/ml in dry, rainy and summer seasons, respectively. Pseudomonas spp. in effluents and river water were also slightly higher in dry season than that of rainy and summer seasons due to increase in water level. The total coliform and fecal coliform counts of the industrial effluents and discharge point in the river were always very high, which was >2.4 × 103cfu/100 ml in all seasons as measured by the MPN method. Salmonella, Vibrio and Staphylococcus were frequently isolated from all the sampling points throughout the year with a few exceptions. This study indicates that the water of the river Buriganga and Karnatoli is heavily contaminated with both industrial wastes and domestic sewage materials. The bacteriological state of the water of the rivers is comparable to that of the effluents. The presence of pathogenic organisms may pose health hazards to the users of the river water and also poses risks for the aquatic organisms especially fish of the water bodies. Key words: Microbial load; Tannery; Textile effluents; Receiving rivers DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dujbs.v19i1.8946 DUJBS 2010; 19(1): 73-81
Fungi associated with datura metel L.
Authors: Aktar Mahfuzar , Shamsi Shamim
Published: November 2011

A total of 20 species of fungi representing 12 genera were found to be associated with Datura metel L. in Bangladesh. The fungi were Alternaria alternata (Fr.) Keissler, Arthrinium saccharicola Stevenson, Aspergillus niger Van Tiegh., A. flavus Link ex Fr,, Cladosporium elatum (Harz) Nannf., C. coffeanum Noack, C. gloeosporioides {Penz.) Sacc., C. graminicola (Ces.) Wilson, Corynespora pruni (Berk. & Curt.) M. B. Ellis, Curvularia fallax Boedijn, C. lunata (Wakker) Boedijn, C. penniseti (Mitra) Boedijn, C. prasadii R.L. & B.L Mathur, Fusarium flocciferum Corda. Sturm's Deutschl, F. nivale (Fr.) Ces., Rabenth. Herb., Nigrospora sphaerica (Sacc.) Mason, Penicillium spp., Pseudocercospora fuligena (Roldan) Deighton, Rhizopus stolonifer (Ehrenb. ex. Fr.) Lind and one sterile unidentified fungal species. The percentage of association of Cladosporium elatum isolated from infected fruits was higher than any other fungi. Arthrinium saccharicola, Colletotrichum coffeanum, Corynespora pruni, Fusarium flocciferum and F. nivale are new records for Bangladesh. Key words: Fungi; Association; Datura metel DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dujbs.v19i1.8947 DUJBS 2010; 19(1): 83-89
Survival potentiality of shigella boydii 15 atcc12034 in laboratory microcosm using water from two sources
Authors: Shah Sabaria , Azmuda Nafisa , Rahman Mohammad Ziaur , Khan Sirajul Islam , Akhter Humaira , Begum Anowara
Published: November 2011

Shigellosis is a waterborne disease but detection and isolation of Shigella in the water cannot be credibly ascertained even during epidemics. The detection, persistence or survival of Shigella in water is thus quite imperative to control the disease. The present study attempts to study the survival of Shigella in waters of different sources using Shigella boydii 15 ATCC12034 as reference culture. Five microcosms were set up; these were pond water (from two locations), tap water, distilled water and Phosphate Buffer Saline (PBS). Relatively longer bacterial persistence was found in microcosms with pond water as compared to that observed in microcosms with PBS and distilled water. With the initial inoculums of 105cfu/ml, the strain became nonculturable after 9 and 18 days in PBS and pond water, respectively. But with the inoculum size of 106cfu/ml, it survived up to 16 to 22 weeks in pond waters from two different sources. The morphological and biochemical characteristics of the bacteria remained unchanged over this time. Fluorescent microscopy and PCR were carried out to detect the presence of Shigella boydii 15 in the waters after it became nonculturable in conventional nutrient media. The survival of Shigella in water was possibly inoculum’s size dependent; its presence might diminish with time due to lack of nutrients and shifting of physicochemical factors, etc. in water. Key words: Shigella boydii; Survival; Microcosm; Viable; Nonculturable DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dujbs.v19i2.8951 DUJBS 2010; 19(2): 103-110
Effects of water depth on the growth of nelumbo nucifera gaertn. Seedlings
Authors: Alfasane Md Almujaddade , Khondker Moniruzzaman , Begum ZN Tahmida
Published: November 2011

Water depth showed significant effect on the growth of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. in deep and shallow water culture pits. In deep water culture pit, the leaf area showed its highest growth rate of 21.84 ± 2.89 cm2/day in summer and petiole length showed highest growth rate of 0.34 ± 0.10 cm/day in monsoon. The plantlets grown in shallow water culture pit showed highest growth rate of leaf area of 8.75 ± 0.91 cm2/day in summer and the length of the petiole was highest in monsoon (0.25 ± 0.03 cm/day). Comparatively highest growth was observed in deep water culture pit rather than that of shallow water. Highest growth of the plant and flowering were found to be associated with higher water depth (100 cm) where the plant grew up to a height of about 1.5 m and maximum leaf diameter was 50 cm. Poor growth of the plant with no flowering was in shallow water depth (20 cm) where maximum height of the plant was about 0.5 m and leaf diameter was 25 cm. Although the concentrations of NO3?N, soluble reactive phosphorus, soluble reactive silicate, planktonic chl a and phaeopigment were in higher amount in shallow water culture pit but due to shallow depthness plant showed poor growth and no flowering.    Key words: Water depth; Limnological factors; Growth; Nelumbo nucifera DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dujbs.v19i2.8952 DUJBS 2010; 19(2): 111-118
Reduced susceptibility to fluroquinolone and molecular analysis of ciprofloxacine resistance in salmonella typhi in Bangladesh
Authors: Sarker ABM Sarwer-E-Alom , Saha Samir K , Islam Maksuda , Hossain MA
Published: November 2011

The study of the trend of infection, susceptibility to antibiotics and molecular level analysis of the cause of reduced susceptibility of Salmonella typhi isolates from the patients in Bangladesh were studied. Out of 9040 blood cultures obtained during the study period, 1266 (14.0%) showed significant growth. Nearly three?fourths of the positive blood cultures were due to S. typhi and rests were mostly of S. paratyphi A. The prevalence was highest between the age group 25 and 60 months. Male showed slightly higher rate of infection than female. Among all 943 S. typhi isolates, 42.6, 42 and 41.4% were sensitive to ampicillin, cotrimoxazol and chloramphenicol, respectively. All isolates were sensitive to ceftriaxon and ceftazidim; 9 isolates were ciprofloxacin resistant, others were moderate to highly sensitive; whereas, only 2.2% isolates were sensitive and almost all (97.8%) were found resistant to nalidixic acid. The E?strip test among 411 isolates showed the MIC value of 53 isolates nearer to the very sensitive (< 0.125 μg/ml), 252 isolates between 0.125 and 0.5 μg/ml, 95 isolates between 0.5 and 2.0 μg/ml and rest other 11 isolates showed from > 2.0 μg/ml to very highly resistant (512 μg/ml). VNTR pattern of all ciprofloxacine resistant S. typhi was also same. Restriction fragment analysis of gyrase?A gene indicated point mutations in different loci that bear the cause of being resistant to ciprofloxacin.    Key words: Reduced susceptibility; Typhoid fever; Salmonella typhi; Fluoroquinolone DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dujbs.v19i2.8955 DUJBS 2010; 19(2): 137-144
Bacterial load in twelve freshwater fishes of four feeding habits in Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman M Shamsur , Hasan Mahmud , Mahmud Zahid Hayat , Islam M Sirajul
Published: November 2011

Homogenized samples of skin, gill and gut of twelve freshwater fishes of four feeding habits were used for bacteriological test. Total bacterial count (TBC), total coliform (TC), faecal coliform (FC), faecal streptococci (FS) and total Vibrio?like colonies were enumerated using serial dilution and spread plate techniques. Variation of bacterial loads among the fishes of various feeding habits was insignificant. The TBC, TC, FC, FS and total Vibrio counts ranged from 1.72 ± 0.68 × 108 to 7.00 ± 3.39 × 108, 2.49 ± 1.72 × 106 to 6.55 ± 3.00 × 106, 1.58 ± 1.29 × 106 to 2.76 ± 1.42 × 106, 4.83 ± 2.09 × 104 to 1.19 ± 0.46 × 105 and 2.06 ± 0.67 × 103 to 3.68 ± 2.02 × 105, respectively among various feeding groups. However, gill and gut had significantly higher density of TBC, TC and FC than that of the skin. High counts of indicator organisms indicate that market fishes of all varieties could be the potential reservoirs in transmission of pathogenic bacteria responsible for diarrhoeal disease.    Key words: Bacterial load; Freshwater fishes; Feeding habit DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dujbs.v19i2.8956 DUJBS 2010; 19(2): 145-150
Mutation in neurospora crassa with leaf extract of citrus aurantifolia and their soluble protein content
Authors: Ray Apurba Lal , Jahan Mahbuba Akhter , Rahim Tahsina
Published: November 2011

Leaf extract of Citrus aurantifolia exhibited remarkable inhibitor effect on the radial mycelial growth of Neurospora crassa. The extract also showed mutagenic effect and atleast six morphological mutants of the fungus were detected including albino (al 243), vigorous (vg 117), fluffy (fl 220), colonial (cl 232), conidial band (con. band 171) and dirty (dir 83). The mutants were used for estimation of soluble protein in comparison with the wild type (Ema). The soluble protein content increased to some extent in case of the mutants con. band 171 (192.86 μg/ml), cl 232 (188.57 μg/ml) and vg 117 (186.43 μg/ml) as compared to the wild type (182.14 μg/ml). On the other hand, the soluble protein content was remarkably decreased in case of the mutant al 243 (94.28 μg/ml), which was about 50% less than the control. This indicates that the leaf extract not only effect colony morphology but possesses profound effect on growth and metabolism of the fungus. Key words: Neurospora crassa; Mutation; Leaf extract; Soluble protein DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dujbs.v19i2.8958 DUJBS 2010; 19(2): 151-155
Phylloplane mycoflora on vigna sinensis L.
Authors: Shamsi Shamim , Naher Najmun
Published: November 2011

Key words: Phylloplane; Mycoflora; Vigna sinensisDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dujbs.v19i2.8965 DUJBS 2010; 19(2): 203-206
Seasonal prevalence, intensity and organal distribution of Helminth parasites in macrognathus aculeatus
Authors: Khanum Hamida , Begum Salma , Begum Aleya
Published: November 2011

Examination of 122 individuals of Macrognathus aculeatus (popularly known as Tara Baim), collected monthly, from the river Buriganga during March, 2007 to February, 2008 revealed 77 fishes were infected with various helminth parasites with an infection rate of 63.11% and intensity of infection of 3.18. A total of 245 parasites were recovered from different organs of the fishes, with the highest number from the intestine. Six species of helminths were detected, of which two were trematodes (Clinostomum piscidum and Rhynchooharynx paradoxa), one species of cestode (Marsipometra parva) and three species of nematodes (Pseudoproleptus vestibules, Cucullanus cirratus and Porrocaecum trichiuri L3 larva). The prevalence and intensity of parasitic infection were a bit higher in female fish than in male. The parasites were much more abundant in rainy season (75%) followed by summer (62.5%) and winter (31.81%). The larger fishes were heavily infected (71.01%) than medium (53.33%) and smaller (52.17%) fishes. Key words: Macrognathus aculeatus; Helminth; Prevalence; Intensity; Organal distribution;  Seasonal variation DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dujbs.v20i2.8971 DUJBS 2011; 20(2): 117-122
Drug resistance and Curli fimbrination of escherichia coli isolated from Bangladeshi patients with urinary tract infections
Authors: Mahbub M Murshida , Azmuda Nafisa , Maumood Belal , Khan Sirajul Islam , Birkeland Nils-Kåre , Akhter Humaira
Published: November 2011

A total of 27 isolates from patients with urinary tract infection (UTI) were screened and of these 12 were found to be Escherichia coli. All the E. coli isolates were multidrug resistant. Among the antibiotics, imipenem and polymyxin B were found to be the best, while oxacillin, cefsulodine and methicillin proved to be worst in effectiveness against the studied E. coli isolates. Only 42% of the E. coli were susceptible to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP–SMX), the current drug of choice for treating UTI. Middle ranged plasmids were observed in the studied isolates. Five strains expressed curli fimbriae and two elaborated cellulose; two other strains produced both curli and cellulose as extracellular matrix component. Key words: Escherichia coli; Urinary tract infection; Antimicrobial resistance; Curli fimbriaeDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dujbs.v20i2.8972 DUJBS 2011; 20(2): 123-130
Diurnal vertical migration of some cladocerans in relation to the physico-chemical factors in a fish pond
Authors: Bhuiyan AS , Akhter S , Quddus MMA
Published: November 2011

Diurnal vertical migration of four genera of cladocerans, namely Diaphanosoma sp., Daphnia sp., Moina sp. and Bosmina sp., during March to December, 2007 showed that the number of Diaphanosoma sp. was 501 units/1 in the surface layers, 172 units/l in the middle layers and 190 units/l in the bottom layers. The yearly number of Daphnia sp. in surface, middle and bottom layerss was 362 units/l, 46 units/l and 189 units/l respectively. In surface, bottom and middle layers, the number of Moina sp. was 159, 71 and 32 units/l, respectively. Bosmina sp. was 78 units/l in surface, 31 units/l in the middle and 33 units/l in the bottom layers. The number of Diaphanosoma sp., Daphnia sp., Moina sp., Bosmina sp., were 455, 149, 259 and 358 units/l, respectively in the morning, 63, 176, 142, 43 units/l at noon and 107, 55, 28, 59 units/l, respectively in the evening. Throughout the study period the cladocerans were always abundant near the surface during morning and evening. Among the factors responsible for the diurnal movement of cadoceran, light played the most important factor. The relationship between the physico-chemical factors and the cladoceran occurrence in the pond was also explored. Key words: Cladocera; Diurnal migration; Physico-chemical parameters; Fish pond DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dujbs.v20i2.8975 DUJBS 2011; 20(2): 147-154
Dependency on planktons of the small indigenous fish species Esomus danricus (Ham) in different habitats
Authors: Kahtun Fatema , Parven Nousheen , Bashar MA
Published: November 2011

The food of Esomus danricus (Ham) in experimental conditions (earthen pots and ponds) was studied from June, 2000 to October, 2000. Pond water was supplied in the experimental tanks and ponds to inoculate plankton. Different kinds of organic matters (duck dropping, poultry dropping, rice straw, wheat bran) were used as nutrients for the culture of plankton. Total numerical abundances of phytoplankton production were 5669 and 3905 in the earthen pots and ponds, respectively. The phytoplanktons belonged to Diatomaceae, Myxophyceae, Chlorophyceae, Mesotaeniaceae, Oocystaceae, Desmidiceae and Characiaceae. Total numerical abundances of zooplankton were 3146 and 3785 in earthen pots and ponds, respectively. The zooplankton belonged to Rotifera, Cladocera, Ostracoda and Copepoda. Insect larvae and annelids were also found in considerable numbers. Digestive tracts of the reared fishes were examined. Total numerical abundances of phytoplankton were greater in number (4224) than those of zooplankton (460). It was observed that dependency of Esomus danricus on phytoplankton was greater than zooplankton . Key words: Esomus danricus; Fish production; Plankton; Dependency; Small water reservoirs DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dujbs.v20i2.8976 DUJBS 2011; 20(2): 155-161
Physico-chemical characteristics of the seasonally flooded soils of Bangladesh and their management implications
Authors: Akhter KF , Khan ZH , Hussain MS , Mazumder AR
Published: November 2011

The seasonally flooded soils of Bangladesh are unique in respect of several specific characteristics and contribute toward producing bulk of its staple food - mainly rice. Having fine texture these soils are similar to the “paddy soils” of Southeast Asian floodplains and have high production potential under proper management. Six representative soil series, viz. Arial, Debidwar, Naraibag, Jalkundi, Siddirganj and Tippera from the central region of Bangladesh have been studied to evaluate some of their intrinsic physico-chemical properties and their sustainable management requirements. These soils are slightly acidic to neutral and are negatively charged with ΔpH values ranging between –0.2 and –1.2. The organic matter content in the surface soil is relatively low that decreases steadily with depth. The cation exchange capacity (CEC) of the soils varies on the basis of their clay and organic matter contents while base saturation per cent (BSP) is high. The contents of available N, P, K and S and DTPA-extractable Fe, Mn, Cu and Zn in soils are moderate and are commensurate with the contents of colloidal fractions. These soils receive several mineral nutrients annually with the sediments deposited during the monsoon floods. The characteristics like organic matter content, particle size distribution, CEC, pH and BSP that have important management implications have been discussed. Key words: Seasonally flooded soils; Physical and chemical attributes; Management implications DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dujbs.v20i2.8978 DUJBS 2011; 20(2): 173-182
Genotype-specific detection of Giardia lamblia in stool samples of diarrhoeal and non-diarrhoeal patients in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Alam Md Masud , Ilias Mohammad , Siddique Md Abdullah , Kabir Md Mamun , Nazib Farida , Musawwir Khan Md Gulam
Published: November 2011

Two major genotypic assemblages (A and B) of Giardia lamblia infect humans. A single-vessel multiplex real-time PCR assay was used that genotypes Giardia infections into assemblages A and/or B directly from fecal samples. In this study, 157 diarrhoeal (symptomatic) and non-diarrhoeal (asymptomatic) stool samples collected from the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (ICDDR,B) and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) hospital, respectively were analyzed to determine whether an association exists between infections with G. lamblia assemblages A or B and diarrhea in Bangladesh. Of the 157 stool samples, Giardia cysts were observed in 35 by microscopy and 127 showed positive result for Giardia cyst specific antigen. The 127 ELISA positive samples were assayed for genotyping by real?time polymerase chain reaction. Of the 117 real-time PCR positive stool samples, 15 were positive for G. lamblia assemblage A, 96 were positive for assemblage B and 6 samples showed positive result for both G. lamblia assemblage A and B infections. Higher ratios for diarrhea were observed for assemblage A infections, whereas higher parasite DNA loads and a higher overall rate were observed for assemblage B infections in both diarrhoeal and non-diarrhoeal patients. Real-time PCR is, therefore, useful as an additional test supplementary to microscopy or enzyme immunoassay to detect genotypes of Giardia. Key words: Giardia lamblia; Genotypes; Multiplex real-time PCR; Immunoassay DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dujbs.v20i2.8979 DUJBS 2011; 20(2): 183-189
What Is Common Knowledge?
Authors: Ernst Zachary
Published: November 2011

Common knowledge is usually defined as a state in which everyone knows that p, everyone knows that everyone knows that p, and so on, ad infinitum. This definition is usually attributed to David Lewis, despite the fact that his own formulation bears no resemblance to common knowledge as it is usually understood. In this paper, I argue that this concept of common knowledge requires revision. Contrary to usual practice, it turns out to be difficult to model formally because existing models fail to distinguish between full-blown common knowledge and merely finite levels of interactive knowledge. Conceptually, the concept is incompatible with Lewis's intended purpose and obscures the explanatory role played by rational choice models. I propose that the concept of common knowledge be brought better into alignment with Lewis's actual formulation. This reconceptualization of common knowledge suggests a greater focus on explanations that make recourse to the cognitive constraints of real-world agents.
Why the Empty Shells Were Not Fired: A Semi-Bibliographical Note
Authors: Gilboa Itzhak
Published: November 2011

This note documents Aumann's reason for omitting the “empty shells” argument for the common prior assumption from the final version of “Correlated Equilibrium as an Expression of Bayesian Rationality.” It then continues to discuss the argument and concludes that rational entities cannot learn their own identity; if they do not know it a priori, they never will.
Unraveling Public Good Games
Authors: Brañas-Garza Pablo , Espinosa Maria Paz
Published: November 2011

This paper provides experimental evidence on how players predict end-game effects in a linear public good game. Our regression analysis yields a measure of the relative importance of priors and signals on subjects’ beliefs on contributions and allows us to conclude that, first, the weight of the signal is relatively unimportant, while priors have a large weight and, second, priors are the same for all periods. Hence, subjects do not expect end-game effects and there is very little updating of beliefs. We argue that the sustainability of cooperation is related to this pattern of belief formation.
Removal of Mercury by Foam Fractionation Using Surfactin, a Biosurfactant
Authors: Chen Hau-Ren , Chen Chien-Cheng , Reddy A. Satyanarayana , Chen Chien-Yen , Li Wun Rong , Tseng Min-Jen , Liu Hung-Tsan , Pan Wei , Maity Jyoti Prakash , Atla Shashi B.
Published: November 2011

The separation of mercury ions from artificially contaminated water by the foam fractionation process using a biosurfactant (surfactin) and chemical surfactants (SDS and Tween-80) was investigated in this study. Parameters such as surfactant and mercury concentration, pH, foam volume, and digestion time were varied and their effects on the efficiency of mercury removal were investigated. The recovery efficiency of mercury ions was highly sensitive to the concentration of the surfactant. The highest mercury ion recovery by surfactin was obtained using a surfactin concentration of 10 × CMC, while recovery using SDS required < 10 × CMC and Tween-80 >10 × CMC. However, the enrichment of mercury ions in the foam was superior with surfactin, the mercury enrichment value corresponding to the highest metal recovery (10.4%) by surfactin being 1.53. Dilute solutions (2-mg L−1 Hg2+) resulted in better separation (36.4%), while concentrated solutions (100 mg L−1) enabled only a 2.3% recovery using surfactin. An increase in the digestion time of the metal solution with surfactin yielded better separation as compared with a freshly-prepared solution, and an increase in the airflow rate increased bubble production, resulting in higher metal recovery but low enrichment. Basic solutions yielded higher mercury separation as compared with acidic solutions due to the precipitation of surfactin under acidic conditions.
Advancement into the Arctic Region for Bioactive Sponge Secondary Metabolites
Authors: Abbas Samuel , Kelly Michelle , Bowling John , Sims James , Waters Amanda , Hamann Mark
Published: November 2011

Porifera have long been a reservoir for the discovery of bioactive compounds and drug discovery. Most research in the area has focused on sponges from tropical and temperate waters, but more recently the focus has shifted to the less accessible colder waters of the Antarctic and, to a lesser extent, the Arctic. The Antarctic region in particular has been a more popular location for natural products discovery and has provided promising candidates for drug development. This article reviews groups of bioactive compounds that have been isolated and reported from the southern reaches of the Arctic Circle, surveys the known sponge diversity present in the Arctic waters, and details a recent sponge collection by our group in the Aleutian Islands, Alaska. The collection has yielded previously undescribed sponge species along with primary activity against opportunistic infectious diseases, malaria, and HCV. The discovery of new sponge species and bioactive crude extracts gives optimism for the isolation of new bioactive compounds from a relatively unexplored source.
A Planar Conformation and the Hydroxyl Groups in the B and C Rings Play a Pivotal Role in the Antioxidant Capacity of Quercetin and Quercetin Derivatives
Authors: Moalin Mohamed , Strijdonck Gino P. F. van , Beckers Maud , Hagemen Geja J. , Borm Paul J. , Bast Aalt , Haenen Guido R. M. M.
Published: November 2011

The polyphenol quercetin (Q) that has a high antioxidant capacity is a lead compound in the design of antioxidants. We investigated the possibility of modifying quercetin while retaining its antioxidant capacity as much as possible. To this end, the antioxidant capacities of Q, rutin, monohydroxyethyl rutinoside (monoHER) and a series of synthesized methylated Q derivatives were determined. The results confirm that the electron donating effect of the hydroxyl groups is essential. It was also found that the relatively planar structure of Q needs to be conserved. This planar conformation enables the distribution of the electron donating effect through the large conjugated π-system over the entire molecule. This is essential for the cooperation between the electron donating groups. Based on the activity of the compounds tested, it was concluded that structural modification at the 5 or 7 position is the most optimal to retain most of the antioxidant capacity of Q. This was confirmed by synthesizing and testing Q5OMe (Q6) and Q7OMe (Q7) that indeed displayed antioxidant capacities closest to Q.
Multispectral Remote Sensing from Unmanned Aircraft: Image Processing Workflows and Applications for Rangeland Environments
Authors: Laliberte Andrea S. , Goforth Mark A. , Steele Caitriana M. , Rango Albert
Published: November 2011

Using unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) as remote sensing platforms offers the unique ability for repeated deployment for acquisition of high temporal resolution data at very high spatial resolution. Multispectral remote sensing applications from UAS are reported in the literature less commonly than applications using visible bands, although light-weight multispectral sensors for UAS are being used increasingly. . In this paper, we describe challenges and solutions associated with efficient processing of multispectral imagery to obtain orthorectified, radiometrically calibrated image mosaics for the purpose of rangeland vegetation classification. We developed automated batch processing methods for file conversion, band-to-band registration, radiometric correction, and orthorectification. An object-based image analysis approach was used to derive a species-level vegetation classification for the image mosaic with an overall accuracy of 87%. We obtained good correlations between: (1) ground and airborne spectral reflectance (R2 = 0.92); and (2) spectral reflectance derived from airborne and WorldView-2 satellite data for selected vegetation and soil targets. UAS-acquired multispectral imagery provides quality high resolution information for rangeland applications with the potential for upscaling the data to larger areas using high resolution satellite imagery.
The Lymantria dispar IPLB-Ld652Y Cell Line Transcriptome Comprises Diverse Virus-Associated Transcripts
Authors: Sparks Michael E. , Gundersen-Rindal Dawn E.
Published: November 2011

The enhanced viral susceptibility of the gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar)-derived IPLB-Ld652Y cell line has made it a popular in vitro system for studying virus-related phenomena in the Lepidoptera. Using both single-pass EST sequencing and 454-based pyrosequencing, a transcriptomic library of 14,368 putatively unique transcripts (PUTs) was produced comprising 8,476,050 high-quality, informative bases. The gene content of the IPLB-Ld652Y transcriptome was broadly assessed via comparison with the NCBI non‑redundant protein database, and more detailed functional annotation was inferred by comparison to the Swiss-Prot subset of UniProtKB. In addition to L. dispar cellular transcripts, a diverse array of both RNA and DNA virus-associated transcripts was identified within the dataset, suggestive of a high level of viral expression and activity in IPLB-Ld652Y cells. These sequence resources will provide a sound basis for developing testable experimental hypotheses by insect virologists, and suggest a number of avenues for potential research.
Enracinement universitaire et sédentarité étudiante dans les académies françaises
Authors: Vassal Serge
Published: November 2011

Local recruitment and student's sedentary behaviour in French academies.

The author examines the ability of French universities to retain the students coming from the area and to attract those from other regions. He assesses the influence of French universities as regards the recruitment of students using two indicators: rate of local recruitment and rate of sedentary students. The crossing of the two ratios leads to the classification of French «Académies» into four types.
L'étude géographique de la mortalité : bilan et problèmes
Authors: Noin Daniel
Published: November 2011

The Geographical Study of Mortality, Assessment and Problems.

1) This paper first deals with a brief assessment of works published. For the observation of inequalities, assessment is relatively ample, but in their explanation, evaluation remains scant.

2) It deals next with the problems posed by the geographical study of mortality. The data present the first problem by their lack of validity in many countries. The question of indicators loses its accuracy. The use of the micro-scale requires serious precaution. The analysis of mortality by sex, age and cause of death must also be studied with precaution to avoid the risk of random results. The most difficult problems however concern the search for causes ; the geographical approach cannot resolve alone the question of cause ; at some time or other, it must give way to other approaches.
La mortalité en Italie selon des facteurs socio-économiques
Authors: Meneghel Giovanna
Published: November 2011

L'impossibilité de disposer de données désagrégées et d'informations assez détaillées pour l'étude de la mortalité différentielle a provoqué un fort retard en Italie en ce qui conce'rae l'analyse de la mortalité selon la condition socio-économique et le groupe professionnel. Les premiers résultats d'une recherche entreprise par PISTAT en 1986 tiennent compte de plusieurs facteurs : situation géographique (Nord/Centre et Sud), sexe, âge (trois catégories), niveau d'instruction, dimension de l'habitation, titre de jouissance du logement (propriété/location), profession. Les résultats mettent en évidence de forts déséquilibres entre une région et l'autre et un excès de mortalité dans la tranche d'âge 18-54 ans pour la catégorie des travailleurs manuels salariés et dans la tranche d'âge 55-77 ans pour les élites (chefs d'entreprise et professions libérales) ; ainsi qu'une mortalité plus basse pour les employés.
Les champs d'action des équipements médicaux : distances et consommations médicales
Authors: Mizrahi Andrée , Mizrahi Arié
Published: November 2011

Catchment Areas of Health Care Amenities: Distance and Medical Consumption.

The effect of distance between place of residence and points of health care on the consumption of the latter. Because of resistance to move, patients live closer to the providers of health care than does the general population. A decreasing attraction model is appropriate to various types of care. The effect of distance is greater for the elderly, the self-employed and the rural population of the eastern central part of France. Relations of complementarity and of substitution as well as the difficulty to travel may modify the effect of distance.
Influence of Selection Bias on the Test Decision
Authors: Cramer E. , Kennes L. N. , Heussen N. , Tamm M.
Published: November 2011

Background: Selection bias arises in clinical trials by reason of selective assignment of patients to treatment groups. Even in randomized clinical trials with allocation concealment this phenomenon can occur if future assignments can be predicted due to knowledge of former allocations.

Objectives: Considering unmasked randomized clinical trials with allocation concealment the impact of selection bias on type I error rate under permuted block randomization is investigated. We aimed to extend the existing research into this topic by including practical assumptions concerning misclassification of patient characteristics to get an estimate of type I error close to clinical routine. To establish an upper bound for the type I error rate different biasing strategies of the investigator are compared first. In addition, the aspect of patient availability is considered.

Methods: To evaluate the influence of selection bias on type I error rate under several practical situations, different block sizes, selection effects, biasing strategies and success rates of patient classification were simulated using SAS.

Results: Type I error rate exceeds 5 percent significance level; it reaches values up to 21 percent. More cautious biasing strategies and misclassification of patient characteristics may diminish but cannot eliminate selection bias. The number of screened patients is about three times larger than the needed number for the trial.

Conclusions: Even in unmasked randomized clinical trials using permuted block randomization with allocation concealment the influence of selection bias must not be disregarded evaluating the test decision. It should be incorporated when designing and reporting a clinical trial.
Hijacking of Basic Research: The Case of Synthetic Cannabinoids
Authors: Wiley Jenny , Marusich Julie , Huffman J.W. , Balster R.L. , Thomas Brian
Published: November 2011

Gathering and communicating knowledge are important aspects of the scientific endeavor. Yet presentation of data in public forums such as scientific meetings and publications makes it available not only to scientists, but also to others who may have different ideas about how to use research findings. A recent example of this type of hijacking is the introduction of synthetic cannabinoids that are sprayed on herbal products and subsequently smoked for their marijuana-like intoxicating properties. Originally developed for the legitimate research purpose of furthering understanding of the cannabinoid system, these synthetic cannabinoids are being abused worldwide, creating issues for regulatory and law enforcement agencies that are struggling to keep up with the growing number of compounds of various structural motifs. Besides describing the history of this emerging public health problem, this Occasional Paper highlights opportunities for research related to health issues caused by the new synthetic cannabinoids.
COMMITMENT IN MARKETING RESEARCH SERVICES: TWO ALTERNATIVE MODELS / ĮSIPAREIGOJIMAI ATLIEKANT RINKODAROS TYRIMUS: DU ALTERNATYVŪS MODELIAI
Authors: Čater Barbara , Žabkar Vesna , Čater Tomaž
Published: November 2011

The paper aims to contribute to the body of knowledge on client commitment in business-to-business professional services by developing and testing two alternative models: one based on the Relationship Marketing (RM) approach and the second on the Industrial Marketing and Purchasing Group (IMP) approach. Both models include the same mediators (components of commitment) and consequences (attitudinal and behavioral loyalty), yet they differ in the antecedents of commitment. By using SEM, both models are tested and compared on a sample of 150 firms. The results show that affective commitment is the only component of commitment that influences both attitudinal and behavioral loyalty. In the RM model affective commitment is positively influenced by trust, social bonds and satisfaction, while in the IMP model it is positively influenced by trust and knowledge transfers. Although differences in the sizes of effects can be found, the two models perform comparably well in terms of the model fit and their explanatory power of loyalty. Santrauka Straipsnio tikslas - nustatyti žinių lygį, kurį yra pasiekę profesionalai, organizuojantys paslaugų teikimą pagal modelį verslas verslui. Autoriai pasirinko du modelius: vienas pagrįstas rinkodaros ryšių (MR), kitas - gamybinės rinkodaros ir prekybos grupių (IMP) požiūriu. Abu modeliai apima tokius parametrus, kaip įsipareigojimai, ir tokius rezultatus, kaip vartotojų lojalumas, požiūris, tačiau skirtingas pradines sąlygas. Atliekant tyrimus modeliai buvo pritaikyti 150 įmonių. Kaip teigia straipsnio autoriai, gauti tyrimo rezultatai rodo, kad emocinis įsipareigojimas yra sudėtinė įsipareigojimų, turinčių įtakos lojalumui bei vartotojų požiūrio formavimui, dalis. Pritaikius pasirinktus modelius gaunami atitinkami rezultatai.
Biomolecular Self-Defense and Futility of High-Specificity Therapeutic Targeting
Authors: Rosenfeld Simon
Published: November 2011

Robustness has been long recognized to be a distinctive property of living entities. While a reasonably wide consensus has been achieved regarding the conceptual meaning of robustness, the biomolecular mechanisms underlying this systemic property are still open to many unresolved questions. The goal of this paper is to provide an overview of existing approaches to characterization of robustness in mathematically sound terms. The concept of robustness is discussed in various contexts including network vulnerability, nonlinear dynamic stability, and self-organization. The second goal is to discuss the implications of biological robustness for individual-target therapeutics and possible strategies for outsmarting drug resistance arising from it. Special attention is paid to the concept of swarm intelligence, a well studied mechanism of self-organization in natural, societal and artificial systems. It is hypothesized that swarm intelligence is the key to understanding the emergent property of chemoresistance.
Effects of a Self-Determination Theory–Based Mail-Mediated Intervention on Adults' Exercise Behavior
Authors: Levy Susan S. , Cardinal Bradley J.
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

To examine the effect of a mail-mediated intervention, based on self-determination theory, on adults' exercise behavior.

Methods.

The study was a randomized control trial conducted over a 2-month period. Of the initial 185 volunteer participants, 126 (68.1%) completed questionnaires at baseline, 1 month, and 2 months. Participants in intervention-only and intervention-plus-booster groups received a mail-delivered packet containing strategies designed to promote perceptions of autonomy, competence, and relatedness regarding exercise. Those in a control group received an American Heart Association physical-activity facts packet. After 1 month, those in the intervention-plus-booster group received a booster postcard, reiterating the main points of the initial intervention packet. Exercise behavior was the primary outcome variable. Perceptions of autonomy, competence, and relatedness were evaluated as mediating variables.

Results.

Separate 3 (group) × 3 (time) repeated measures analyses of variance conducted for men and women revealed that for women, all three groups significantly increased exercise levels over the 2-month period. No significant interactions were found regarding the influence of the intervention on the mediating variables. A process evaluation indicated a lack of compliance regarding completing intervention-packet worksheets.

Discussion.

Findings suggested that more intensive interventions and greater fidelity of treatment may be needed to evidence change in exercise behavior.
The Relationships between Delivery Agents' Physical Activity Level and the Likelihood of Implementing a Physical Activity Program
Authors: Estabrooks Paul , Bradshaw Michael , Fox Elizabeth , Berg Joseph , Dzewaltowski David A.
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

To determine the relationships between delivery agents' physical activity characteristics and subsequent adoption of a physical activity promotion program for community implementation.

Methods.

Agents responsible for county health promotion in Kansas (n = 91; 94.5% women; mean age = 43.0 ± 11) completed interviews that assessed physical activity self-efficacy, value, and participation. Subsequent implementation of a physical activity program was monitored. The response rate was 100%.

Results.

Fifty-five percent of the agents met Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations for physical activity, 35% were active but did not meet CDC recommendations, and 10% were inactive. On the basis of logistic regression analysis (Wald statistic = 7.63; p < .05), agents who met recommendations were more likely to adopt the program for their county (69%) than were agents who were less active (41%) and inactive (11%).

Discussion.

The data suggest that increasing the proportion of delivery agents who meet the CDC recommendations for physical activity could be related with a higher proportion of communities implementing physical activity programs.
Unsafe to Play? Neighborhood Disorder and Lack of Safety Predict Reduced Physical Activity among Urban Children and Adolescents
Authors: Molnar Beth E. , Gortmaker Steven L. , Bull Fiona C. , Buka Stephen L.
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

Lack of physical activity is associated with increased risk of overweight and cardiovascular disease, conditions associated with lower socioeconomic status (SES). Associations between activity levels of urban youth and limited access to safe recreation areas in their neighborhoods of residence were investigated.

Design.

Analyses of data from the Project on Human Development in Chicago Neighborhoods, a multilevel longitudinal study of families and communities, are reported.

Setting.

Chicago, Illinois.

Subjects.

Individual-level data were obtained from 1378 youth 11 to 16 years old and caregivers living in 80 neighborhood clusters. Neighborhood-level data were collected from 8782 community residents and videotapes of 15,141 block faces.

Measures.

Parental estimates of hours youth spent in recreational programming were used to estimate physical activity. A scale of residents' assessment of neighborhood safety for children's play was created; disorder measures came from videotaped observations.

Results.

Physical activity averaged 2.7 hours/week (SD = 5.0), varying significantly across neighborhoods. Using hierarchical linear regression, SES, age, and male gender, but not body mass index, were independently associated with physical activity. Lower neighborhood safety and social disorder were significantly associated with less activity, controlling for demographics.

Conclusions.

One mechanism for reduced physical activity among youth may be the influence of unsafe neighborhoods. Neighborhood interventions to increase safety and reduce disorder may be efficacious in increasing physical activity, thereby reducing risk of overweight and cardiovascular disease.
Best Practice in Group-Based Smoking Cessation: Results of a Literature Review Applying Effectiveness, Plausibility, and Practicality Criteria
Authors: Manske Steve , Miller Susan , Moyer Cheryl , Phaneuf Marie Rose , Cameron Roy
Published: November 2011

Objective.

Apply a “best practices” model to evidence regarding group smoking cessation to inform organizational decisions about adopting such programs. The best-practices model attempts to integrate rigorous review of evidence with context and practical considerations important to organizations contemplating adoption.

Data Sources.

First, we identified effective practices by systematic literature review with two blinded reviewers to (1) search databases (99.8% agreement), (2) hand search journals with five or more papers selected in first step (99.9% agreement), (3) search reference lists of included papers (99.4% agreement), and (4) contact published experts. Second, model programs, theory, and expert opinion suggested plausible practices. Finally, a practitioner-researcher advisory group suggested practical considerations affecting adoption decisions.

Study Selection.

All 67 studies included in the review met six requirements: (1) peer reviewed, (2) primary studies, (3) using experimental or quasi-experimental design, (4) compared one or more smoking-cessation interventions that involved two or more group sessions, (5) studied persons 18+ years old, and (6) reported ≥ 6-month point prevalence or continuous abstinence outcomes.

Data Extraction.

Two independent raters assessed study quality (89.5% agreement). Effective practices consistently exhibited a statistically significant effect. Plausible practices showed consistency across three types of evidence. An advisory group based practicality criteria on critical review and experience.

Data Synthesis.

Two practices were rated effective: multicomponent behavioral intervention and nicotine replacement therapy. Five practices received plausible ratings: components of behavioral skills, information about smoking, self-monitoring, social support, and four or more sessions of 60 to 90 minutes. The Advisory Group identified 11 practicality questions to assist organizations to make adoption decisions regarding effective and plausible practices.

Conclusions.

No research evidence guides potential smoking-cessation program adopters regarding program participants, providers, settings, or quality assurance. Reviews to influence practice must consider science and practice (context) to facilitate adoption of best practices.
The Strength Ezine: An Application of E-Mail for Health Promotion in Adolescent Girls
Authors: Abroms Lorien C. , Fagan Pebbles , Eisenberg Marla E. , Lee Hye-Seung H. , Remba Natania , Sorensen Glorian
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

Few studies have investigated the efficacy of e-mail for promoting behavior change. This study evaluates the participation in and outcomes associated with an e-mail-based health promotion program.

Methods.

Adolescent girls aged 15 to 17 years were recruited at a shopping mall. Participants with an e-mail address were assigned to the interactive e-mail magazine (Ezine) group (n = 37), whereas those not reporting an e-mail address were assigned to the non-Ezine group (n = 33). Participants in the Ezine group received the health Ezine, which included a quiz and an advice column, on a weekly basis.

Results.

Results indicate that among the Ezine group, there was a high recall of the Ezine (81.1%), and more than one third of the participants replied to Ezine volumes with quiz answers or an advice question (36.6%). Differences in health behavior change between the Ezine and non-Ezine groups were not significant.

Conclusions.

E-mails on health-related matters can generate moderate levels of involvement in adolescent girls. Given the widespread use of e-mail, more studies are needed on the effective application of e-mail for health behavior change.