bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bacterial Load in Relation to Physicochemical Parameters and Phytoplankton Abundance of an Urban Pond
Authors: Karim Md Abdul , Begum ZN Tahmida , Islam Md Sariful
Published: August 2012

Abundance of bacteria and phytoplankton was studied in different months of an urban pond of Dhaka   Metropolis from May 2009 to February 2010. Interrelationships among bacteria, phytoplankton densities and   the physiochemical properties were also determined. The abundance of bacteria ranged from 5.9×103 to 1.5×107 cfu/100 ml and showed high densities between May and July, while the density of phytoplankton varied   from 6.7×104 to 7.5×106 cells/l. Bacterial abundance showed a significant positive correlation with air and   water temperature, while phytoplankton showed a significant negative correlation with both of them. Furthermore, bacteria showed a significant positive correlation with conductivity, TDS and alkalinity. Among the physicochemical variables water temperature was significantly correlated with air temperature, pH and alkalinity. Conductivity correlated significantly with TDS and alkalinity. With few exceptions there   was inverse relationship between phytoplankton and bacterial abundance in the pond DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjb.v41i1.11077 Bangladesh J. Bot. 41(1): 15-20, 2012 (June)
Notes on The Rubiaceae. 4: Five New Records for Bangladesh
Authors: Das Sujit C , Dev Pradip K , Rahman M Atiqur
Published: August 2012

The occurrence of five species namely, Mussaenda keenani Hook. f., Mycetia listeri Deb, Ophiorrhiza fasciculata D. Don, Psychotria stipulacea Mail. and Psydrax umbellata (Wight) Bridson, of the family Rubiaceae in the flora of Bangladesh is reported for the first time. The Psydrax Gaertn. is also a new generic record for Bangladesh. These species are described along with their ecology, geographical distribution and places of occurrence in Bangladesh. Illustrations and photographs of these new records are also provided. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjb.v41i1.11078 Bangladesh J. Bot. 41(1): 21-28, 2012 (June)
Effects of Salicylic and Gibberellic Acids on Wheat (Triticum Aestivum L.) Under Salinity Stress
Authors: Turkyilmaz Bengu
Published: August 2012

Salinity decreased seed germination, the length, fresh and dry weight of the root and shoot, chlorophyll and carotenoid contents of wheat. The proline content was increased by salinity. The application of salicylicand gibberellic acids, was found to alleviate the adverse effects of salinity stress on the above parameters. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjb.v41i1.11079Bangladesh J. Bot. 41(1): 29-34, 2012 (June
Water, Sediment and Macrophyte Quality of Some Shrimp Culture Ponds and Freshwater Ecosystems of Koyra
Authors: Chowdhury Abdullah Harun , Ahmed Roxana
Published: August 2012

A total of 29 genera belonging to 24 families of aquatic macrophytes were recorded. Among these, 25 species were recorded from the freshwater aquatic ecosystems, 4 species from both the shrimp culture ponds and freshwater aquatic ecosystems and only one from the shrimp culture ponds. The physicochemical conditions of both the habitats indicate that very poor number of macrophytes can grow in the shrimp culture ponds due to high salinity of water and soil. Low population and abundance indicate that the macrophytes are in alarming condition in Koyra due to increasing salinity. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjb.v41i1.11080 Bangladesh J. Bot. 41(1): 35-41, 2012 (June)
Limnology of Lake Ashura, Dinajpur, Bangladesh
Authors: Alfasane Md Almujaddade , Gani Md Ataul , Islam Md Shafiqul , Khondker Moniruzzaman
Published: August 2012

Results of limnological investigation of lake Ashura showed that air and water temperatures were 31.5 ±  0.25ºC and 30.0 ± 0.45ºC, respectively in the month of April, 2011. pH, alkalinity, conductivity, dissolved oxygen and TDS of water were 7.11 ± 0.02, 2.96 ± 0.58 meq/l, 760.67 ± 8.08 ?S/cm, 7.72 ± 0.41 mg/l and 104.67 ± 1.53 mg/l, respectively. The concentration of NO3-N, SRP and SRS were 63.33 ± 25.16 ?g/l, 11.60 ± 1.60 ?g/l and 14.36 ± 0.25 mg/l, respectively. Phytoplankton biomass as chl a and concentration of phaeopigment were 5.33 and 3.41 ?g/l, respectively. The density of phytoplankton was 552.84 × 103 ind/l. A total of 35 species of phytoplankton were recorded of which 15 belonged to Euglenophyceae, followed by Chlorophyceae (8), Bacillariophyceae (7), Cyanophyceae (4) and Cryptophyceae (1). Macrophyte flora was represented by 31 species. The dominant species were Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms, Ludwigia  adscendens (L.) Hara. and Oryza sativa L. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjb.v41i1.11081 Bangladesh J. Bot. 41(1): 43-48, 2012 (June)
Genetic Divergence in Yardlong Bean (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. Ssp. Sesquipedalis Verdc.)
Authors: Huque AKM Mahmudul , Hossain MK , Alam N , Hasanuzzaman M , Biswas BK
Published: August 2012

Genetic divergence among 13 commercial yardlong bean (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. ssp. sesquipedalis Verdc.) genotypes was investigated to select the parents for hybridization using Mahalanobis D2 statistics. Cluster analysis was used for grouping 13 yardlong bean genotypes. The genotypes fall into four   clusters. Cluster III had the maximum (5) and cluster I had the minimum (1) number of genotypes. Cluster III   (D2 = 1.439) had highest intra-cluster distance and the lowest in cluster I (D2 = 0.000). The inter-cluster   divergence ranged from 4.160 to 15.515 between clusters II and III and clusters I and II, respectively. The   characteristics i.e. number of pods per plant, number of pods per cluster, days to first flowering, and   vegetable pod yield per plant contributed maximum towards divergence among yardlong bean genotypes. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjb.v41i1.11084 Bangladesh J. Bot. 41(1): 61-69, 2012 (June)
Floristic Diversity of Dhamrai Upazila of Dhaka With Emphasis on Medicinal Plants
Authors: Rahman M Oliur , Antara Rumana Tanjin , Begum Momtaz , Hassan Md Abul
Published: August 2012

A total of 263 angiosperm species under 210 genera and 79 families have been recorded from Dhamrai Upazila of Dhaka district. Of these, Magnoliopsida is represented by 200 species under 154 genera and 62 families while Liliopsida is represented by 63 species under 56 genera and 17 families. Asteraceae is the largest family in Magnoliopsida represented by 17 species, and Poaceae is the largest family in Liliopsida represented by 20 species. Habit analysis shows that herbs, shrubs and trees are represented by 166, 23 and 74 species, respectively. Sixty two medicinal plants have been documented with their uses for the cure of more than 30 diseases, and some of these are diabetes, jaundice, diarrhoea, dysentery, spleen and liver complaints, chronic ulcers, bronchitis, rheumatism, irregular menstruation, piles, urinary problems and heart diseases. Threats to the species have also been assessed and appropriate conservation measures suggested. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjb.v41i1.11085 Bangladesh J. Bot. 41(1): 71-85, 2012 (June)
Diversity, Distribution and Density of Estuarine Phytoplankton in The Sundarban Mangrove Forests, Bangladesh
Authors: Aziz Abdul , Rahman Mashrura , Ahmed Ashfaque
Published: August 2012

Diversity, distribution and density of estuarine phytoplankton from nine sites under four Ranges of the Sundarban Mangrove Forests (SMF), Bangladesh have been studied. The phytoplankton communities represented by 36 species which belonged to Chlorophyceae (3), Euglenophyceae (2), Bacillariophyceae (30) and Xanthophyceae (1). Occurrence of taxa and their densities were highest near the confluence of Hangsha River (R) with the river Murdat at Patcosta. Shannon-Wiener diversity index was also highest (H = 3.494) in this area. Lowest density of phytoplankton and diversity indices (H = 1.661) were found in Bal R., Bisandri Khal and Kalabogi R. Oocystis pusilla, Coscinodiscus excentricus, C. lineatus and Navicula brekkeansis occurred abundantly, while Cyclotella comta, Thalassionema nitzschioides and Lioloma delicatula were common. Coscinodiscus lineatus was distributed in all the nine sites including high and low tides indicating its high capacity to tolerate habitat fluctuations. Chaetoceros socialis was found only in Passur R. with low salinity, conductivity and total dissolved solids. The total numbers of phytoplankton individuals per liter were generally higher during low tide than those of high one. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) showed the relationship between pH and some species of phytoplankton DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjb.v41i1.11086 Bangladesh J. Bot. 41(1): 87-95, 2012 (June)
Ethno-Medico-Botanical Study in Lawachara National Park, Bangladesh
Authors: Uddin Mohammad Zashim , Hassan Md Abul , Rahman Mizanur , Arefin Kamrul
Published: August 2012

Use of medicinal plants for primary health care by the local people in and around the Lawachara  National Park, Bangladesh was recorded. A total of 56 plant species under 30 families with 70 formularies  (treatment mode) have been documented. Among the medicinal species, Citrus limon (L.) Burm. f.,  C. maxima (Burm.) Merr., Cucurbita pepo L., Lepisanthes rubiginosa (Roxb.) Leenh., Euphorbia  pulcherrima Willd. ex Klotz., Mimosa diplotricha C. Wright ex Sauv. have been reported as new medicinal  species from Bangladesh. Out of these plant species, 39.29% belonged to herbs, 19.64% shrubs, 3.71% trees  and 5.36% climbers. In majority cases, leaves of the medicinal plants were found leading in terms of their use  followed by fruit, bark, stem, seed, whole plant, latex, rhizome and inflorescence. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjb.v41i1.11087 Bangladesh J. Bot. 41(1): 97-104, 2012 (June)
Karyotype and RAPD Analysis in Five Potato Varieties (Solanum tuberosum L.)
Authors: Alam Riffat Ara , Habib Md Ahashan , Alam Sheikh Shamimul
Published: August 2012

Two native and three high yielding potato varieties available in Bangladesh were studied cytogenetically   at molecular level to get a preliminary idea about their genomes. These varieties possess 2n = 4x = 48   chromosomes. Each variety has definite centromeric formula. Presence of maximum metacentric   chromosomes suggested their karyotypes as symmetric type. The range of individual chromosomal and total   length of 2n chromosome complements was also distinct in five varieties. Heteromorphicity regarding   centromeric position suggesting the occurrence of structural aberration in respective homologous pairs. Seven   primer combinations were used for RAPD finger printing. A few common RAPD bands suggested the   sharing of genomic fragments among five varieties. However, each variety showed specific characteristic   RAPD bands. Therefore, each variety has characteristic karyotype and RAPD markers. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjb.v41i1.11088 Bangladesh J. Bot. 41(1): 105-110, 2012 (June)
Selection of Promising Rapeseed Mutants Through Multi-Location Trials
Authors: Malek MA , Ismail MR , Monshi FI , Mondal MMA , Alam MN
Published: August 2012

Significant variations were observed for most of the characters among the three promising M5 rapeseed   mutants. Mutant RM-025 produced the highest seed yield of 1945 kg/ha followed by RM-005 (1892 kg/ha)   and had 11.6 and 8.5% higher seed yield, respectively than the control variety. Under farmers management,  on an average, mutant RM-025 and RM-005 produced 1824 and 1725 kg/ha with 11.3% and 5.2% higher   seed yield, respectively than the control variety. These two mutants also had higher number of primary   branches and siliquae/plant, and 1000-seed weight and required shorter maturity period than the control   variety under both management practices. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjb.v41i1.11089 Bangladesh J. Bot. 41(1): 111-114, 2012 (June)
Limnological Notes on Ramsagar, Dinajpur, Bangladesh
Authors: Khondker Moniruzzaman , Alfasane Md Almujaddade , Gani Md Ataul , Islam Md Shafiqul
Published: August 2012

Ramsagar, an artificial lake of Dinajpur district has been investigated limnologically. Mean alkalinity, DO, pH, TDS and conductivity of the lake were 0.50 meq/l, 7.99 mg/l, 6.73, 10.66 mg/l and 73.66 ?S/cm, respectively. The concentration of soluble reactive phosphorus and silicate was very low. Mean value of the former parameter was 3.16 ?g/l and the latter was 0.77 mg/l. Nitrate-nitrogen concentration was < 0.1 mg/l. Phytoplankton biomass as chl a was 5.92 ?g/l and that of phaeopigment 3.65 ?g/l. Phytoplankton flora of the lake was found to be dominated by desmids. The dominant species were Staurastrum coarctatum var. subcurtum (59.35×104, ind/l); S. subgracillimum var. tortum (44.83×104 ind/l) and S. leptacanthum (29.06×104 ind/l). Among the blue-green algae, Anabaena utermöhlii was dominant. Chlorococcales was represented by seven species. The total density of phytoplankton was 163.53×104 ind/l. Considering the overall limnological characteristics, the lake could be characterized as acidic and nutrient poor.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjb.v41i1.11091 Bangladesh J. Bot. 41(1): 119-121, 2012 (June)
Variations in bacterial pathogens causing early onset neonatal septicaemia, according to birth weights - a 5 year study in a referral hospital of West- Bengal
Authors: Chattopadhyay Tapan Kumar , Raj Hirak Jyoti
Published: August 2012

Bacterial sepsis continues to be a major cause of morbidity and mortality in neonates. The features of sepsis being non- specific, a high index of suspicion can only save a precious life. Pathogens of early onset septicaemia may vary, from one country to another and within a country from one place to the other. This study had been undertaken t o understand the variations in the pathogens of early onset neonatal septicaemia according to birth weights ,their susceptibility patterns to commonly used antibiotics in this age of emerging resistance and to utilise this data for better empirical treatment of this potentially fatal conditions. Blood samples from 255 babies belonging to various birth weights and of both sexes with definitive inclusion and exclusion criteria were processeed according to standard laboratory protocols during a five year period, from February 2005-2010, in a rural referral hospital of West Bengal. Culture positivity was found in 63/255 samples (24.70%), comprising of Klebsiella pneumoniae (31.74%) and methicillin sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (31.74%) as predominant isolates. Male: female ratio was 1.25:1. The susceptibility pattern of isolates has been discussed. It is observed that bacteriology of early onset neonatal septicaemia varies according to birth weights. In very low birth weight babies Eshcherichia coli is the predominant organism and culture positivity is highest (87.5%). Where as culture postivity in low birth weight and normal weight babies with sepsis are 32.89% and 29.26% respectively.In low birth weight babies Staphylococcus aureus and in normal weight babies Klebsiella pneumoniae are the predominant organisms. Birth weight of babies and development of neonatal sepsis are significantly associated x2= 7.174, p<0.03. Male babies are more susceptible to develop neonatal sepsis.For initial therapy of early onset neonatal septicemia, Amikacin is the best choice.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmm.v4i2.10823
Isolation Of Potential Pathogenic Bacteria From Nasopharynx From Patients Having Cough For More Than Two Weeks.
Authors: Yesmin Kazi , Shamsuzzaman S M , Chowdhury Akhtaruzzaman , Khatun Khadeza , Alam Jahangir
Published: August 2012

This cross sectional study was done from January 2009 to June 2010 in Microbiology department of Dhaka Medical College on isolation of potential pathogenic bacteria from nasopharynx from patients having cough for more than two weeks. The nasopharyngeal swabs were collected from 290 patients for culture and 101 blood samples were collected for slide agglutination test against anti- Bordetella antibody. In case of culture of nasopharyngeal swabs, 117 (73.12%) samples yielded growth of single organism, 16 (10%) yielded mixed growth and 27 (16.88%) samples yielded no growth in children. In adults, 85 (65.39%) samples yielded growth of single organism, 1 (0.77%) yielded mixed growth and 44 (33.84%) samples yielded no growth. Highest incidence (33.33%) of S. pneumoniae was found in age group of 1-5 years, highest incidence (32.20%) of N. meningitidis was found in age group of 18-25 years and highest incidence (32%) of Staph. aureus was found in age group of 25-50 years. One (0.63%) B. pertussis was isolated from a child and 5 (3.84%) B. parapertussis were isolated from adults. In this study, 116 (83.45%) samples yielded growth in lower socioeconomic group and 101 (70.62%) yielded growth in the samples of middle socioeconomic group. Among the study participants, 31(30.70%) were positive and 70 (69.30%) were negative for antibody against B. pertussis. In anti-Bordetella antibody positive cases, 14 (93.33%) children had duration of cough for 2-3 weeks, 7 (43.75%) adults had duration of cough for 3-4 weeks and 1 (6.25%) adults had more than 6 weeks.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmm.v4i2.10826
Transfusion associated CMV infection: Transfusion strategies for high risk patients
Authors: Jahan Munira , Tabassum Shahina , Aziz Abdul , Ahmed Munim , Islam Md. Nazrul
Published: August 2012

The role of blood and blood products in acquisition of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections following transfusion was reviewed in this study. CMV IgG prevalence was particularly high in Bangladesh. Thus 97% of the study groups were found to be CMV IgG positive. The present study showed that CMV IgM antibody prevalence was significantly higher in multiple transfused groups (24%) than control group (2%) indicating CMV primary infection and reactivation or reinfection occur frequently in multitransfused patients. Most CMV infections acquired after transfusion are either asymptomatic or characterized by a self-limited infectious mononucleosis syndrome but it may be serious or fatal in those who are immunocompromised. Particularly at risk are low-birth weight infants, bone marrow and organ transplant patients. If a patient is at high risk of getting CMV diseases, blood from seronegative donors is appropriate and likely to prevent post transfusion CMV infection. Alternatively, blood that has been filtered to decrease the number of white blood cells - the cells that carry CMV - will protect patients from getting a CMV infection from transfusion.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmm.v4i2.10828
Detection of CTX-M gene in extended spectrum beta lactamase (ESBL) producing Escherichia coli and Klebsiella species of different hospitals.
Authors: Rahman Nawshad Muhammad Wahidur , Lutfor Afzalunnessa Binte , Jhora Sanya Tahmina , Yasmin Mahmuda , Haq Jalaluddin Ashraful
Published: August 2012

A total of 200, non-duplicate ESBL producing strains (171 Escherichia coli and 29 Klebsiella spp.) from three tertiary care hospitals were detected using screening test & double disc synergy test. All isolates were screened for the detection of CTX-M type Extended spectrum Beta-lactamase (ESBL) using PCR. Among them 133 (66.5%) were positive for CTX-M type ESBLs which include 114 (66.66%) E.coli and 19 (65.51%) Klebsiella spp. This is the first report of identifying CTX-M gene in ESBL producing Escherichia coli and Klebsiella species of different hospitals.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmm.v4i2.10829
Clonal Propagation of Rhynchostylis retusa (Lin.) Blume through in vitro Culture and their Establishment in the Nursery
Authors: Sinha Pinaki , Jahan Miskat Ara Akhter
Published: August 2012

For high frequency regeneration of Rhyncnostylis retusa (Lin.) Blume apical nodal segments were used. Half strength MS + 2% sucrose + 1.5 mg/l BA + 0.5 mg/l NAA + 2 g/l peptone + 10% (v/v) coconut water (CW) + 0.5 g/l activated charcoal (AC) was the best nutrient medium, on which 89% cultures induced 8 microshoots per culture. Subculture of microshoots for further 8 weeks on the same nutrient medium enhanced the number of microshoots up to 95. For further proliferation of microshoots, their development into shoots as well as formation of secondary microshoots from the base of the old ones, the best medium was half strength of MS + 2% sucrose + 2 g/l peptone + 10% (v/v) CW + 0.5 g/l AC + 150 mg/l L-glutamine. Plantlets with roots were obtained in half strength of  MS + 2% sucrose + 2 g/l peptone + 10% (v/v) CW + 0.5 g/l AC + 5.0  g/l banana powder, on which cent per cent shoots rooted within eight weeks. The pH of all the categories of cultures were maintained at 5.6 before adding 2.2 g/l gelrite and autoclaving, and the cultures were incubated at 2000 - 3000 lux for 16/8 hrs light/dark at 24 ± 2ºC. Regeneration of plantlets continued due to repeated subculture of microshoots and regenerants were acclimatized and established in the nursery. Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 22(1): 1-11, 2012  (June) DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ptcb.v22i1.11242
Agrobacterium-mediated Genetic Transformation in Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) followed by In vitro Flowering and Seed Formation
Authors: Das Subroto K. , Shethi Kishwar Jahan , Hoque M. I. , Sarker R. H.
Published: August 2012

Genetic transformation system was developed for two microsperma varieties of lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.), namely Bari Masur-4 (BM-4) and Bari Masur-5 (BM-5) using Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain LBA4404 harbouring binary plasmid pBI121, containing GUS and nptII genes. Three different types of embryo explants, namely cotyledonary node (CN), decapitated embryo (DE) and cotyledone attached decapitated embryo (CADE) were used. Highest GUS positive expression was found in DE followed by CADE as detected by transient assays. Following Agrobacterium infection CADE showed better response in developing multiple shoots on MS supplemented with 2.22 µM BAP, 2.32 µM Kn, 0.29 µM GA3 and 30.35 µM tyrosine. Selection of the transformed shoots was carried out by gradually increasing the concentration of kanamycin up to 200 mg/l. Transgenic lentil shoots were produced with an overall frequency of 1.009%. In vitro rooting appeared to have a limitation in obtaining complete plantlets in lentil, therefore in vitro flowering and seed formation were induced in transformed shoots of lentil with a view to recovering of the transgenic progenies.  GUS positive shoots were found to produce in vitro flowers and pods on half-strength MS containing 98.4 µM IBA and 2.69 µM NAA. Expression of gene was detected in various tissues of the transformed shoots. Stable integration of GUS gene was also confirmed through PCR analysis. Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 22(1): 13-26, 2012 (June) DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ptcb.v22i1.11243
Estimation of Ascorbic Acid Content in Prosopis cineraria (L.) Druce Cultivar K1
Authors: Nag Ruchi , Chaturvedi Arjit , Sharma Amit , Bidawat Shashi , Pareek L. K. , Nag T. N.
Published: August 2012

The callus tissues of Prosopis cineraria (L.) Druce established and maintained for a period of eight months on MS supplemented with 2 mg/l, 2, 4-D and its plant parts were used for estimation of ascorbic acid. The tissue thus grown was transferred to fresh MS and MS singly supplemented with 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2% of glucose. The growth indices and ascorbic acid contents in tissues were determined at time interval of two, four, six and eight weeks. Six weeks old tissue cultures showed an increase in the amount of endogenous ascorbic acid as well as growth indices in all the samples. The cultures grown on MS supplemented with 1.5% of glucose showed maximum ascorbic acid content (174.23 mg/100 gdw) and growth index (19.68). Tissues reared with different concentration of glucose showed remarkably high content of ascorbic acid content as compared to control and plant parts. Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 22(1): 27-32, 2012 (June) DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ptcb.v22i1.11244
Rapid and Efficient Plant Regeneration from Nodal Explants of Artemisia annua L.
Authors: Janarthanam B. , Rashmi P. , Sumathi E.
Published: August 2012

An efficient plant regeneration protocol was developed for Artemisia annua, an aromatic medicinal herb. Nodal explants inoculated on MS supplemented with 4.44 ?M BAP showed better growth response and produced 116.2 ± 0.1 micro-shoots of an average length 1.9 ± 0.3 cm after 35 days culture. The cluster of small shootlets were cultured on shoot elongation medium supplemented with 1.44 ?M GA3 and 10% coconut milk (CM) showed shoot elongation up to 4.6 ± 0.7 cm. Roots were induced after transfer to half strength MS supplemented with 2.46 ?M IBA produced 14.3 ± 0.2 roots with an average height of 4.3 ± 0.53 cm after 30 days. The rooted plantlets were transferred for hardening, 80 per cent of plantlets survived and resumed growth in the mixture of soil, vermiculite and farm yard manure (1 :  1 : 1). DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ptcb.v22i1.11257 Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 22(1): 33-39, 2012 (June)
Agrobacterium-mediated Genetic Transformation of Local Cultivars of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)
Authors: Sharmin Ripa Akter , Akter Jasmin , Sarker R. H. , Hoque M. I.
Published: August 2012

Agrobacterium-mediated genetic transformation protocol was established for two chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) varieties, namely Barichhola-4 (Bch-4) and Barichhola-5 (Bch-5). Transformation ability of different explants such as decapitated embryo with single cotyledon disc (DEC), decapitated embryo (DE) and slice embryo decapitated at shoot end with single cotyledon disc (SEC) were tested using Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain LBA4404 harbouring binary plasmid pBI121, containing the GUS and nptII genes. Maximum transformation ability was exhibited by explants of decapitated embryo (DE) from Barichhola-5 (Bch-5). The optimum regeneration from the transformed tissue was achieved on MS  supplemented with 0.5 mg/l BAP, 0.5 mg/l Kn and 0.2 mg/l NAA along with double the amount of CaCl2 and KNO3. Selection of the transformed shoots was carried out by gradually increasing the concentration of kanamycin to 150 mg/l. Stable expression of the GUS gene was detected in various parts of the transformed shoots through GUS histochemical assay. Stable integration of nptII gene within the genomic DNA from these transformed shoots was confirmed through PCR analysis.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ptcb.v22i1.11258 Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 22(1): 41-50, 2012  (June)
Hyaluronic Acid Can be a New Plant Growth Regulator for Hybrid Cymbidium Micropropagation
Authors: Kaewjampa Naruemol , Shimasaki Kazuhiko , Nahar Syeda Jabun
Published: August 2012

Present authors investigated the effect of two biopolymer hyaluronic acid (HA9) and chitosan (Chitosan H), and N6-benzyladenine (BA) supplemented with modified MS on organogenesis in protocorm-like bodies (PLBs) of a Cymbidium cultivar. The percentages of PLB formation from cultures showed 100 % in all treatments except for control (82.7%), 0.1 mg/l HA9 (93.3%) and 10 mg/l Chitosan H (93.3%) treatments. Addition of 0.1 mg/l HA9 to culture medium was highly efficient for PLB multiplication. Both 10 mg/l HA9 and 1.0 mg/l BA significantly increased the number of shoots in cultures. The maximum percentage of shoot (100%) was obtained at 1.0 mg/l chitosan H. Increase in fresh weight showed higher values at BA treatments. Information gained from this study shows that hyaluronic acid (HA9) which is new additive for plant tissue culture act as growth regulator for hybrid Cymbidium micropropagation. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ptcb.v22i1.11261Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 22(1): 59-64, 2012 (June)
Genetic Analysis of Aromatic and Quality Rice Germplasm using Microsatellite Markers
Authors: Shams F.D. , Kuddus M.M.A. , Nasiruddin K.M. , Begum S.N. , Islam M.M.
Published: August 2012

Twenty rice genotypes were analysed with three SSR primers viz., RM223, RM515 and RM342 for detection of the fgr gene responsible for aroma. The primers RM223 and RM515 identified eight and seven genotypes, respectively as having the fgr locus. Presence of the specific allele of the RM342 amplicon, also correlated with strong aroma in two and with weak aroma in five genotypes. The banding pattern for the primer RM342 was different in genotypes with no aroma. Among the three primers (RM223, RM515 and RM342), RM223 detected the highest number of fgr loci in the 20 rice genotypes. In total 11 genotypes were identified as having strong aroma genes by the three primers. These accessions also showed high yields and therefore may prove to be a good source for producing aromatic rice. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ptcb.v22i1.11262Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 22(1): 65-71, 2012 (June)
Molecular Characterization of Mungbean Yellow Mosaic Disease and Coat Protein Gene in Mungbean Varieties of Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Mohammad Nurul , Sony Sonia Khan , Borna Rita Sarah
Published: August 2012

Mungben yellow mosaic virus (MYMV), a member of the genus begomovirus causing major yield loss of mungbean. Development of MYMV tolerant/resistant varieties using an antiviral strategy may be one of the potential options to overcome MYMV diseases. In the present investigation, molecular identification of yellow mosaic disease and characterization of (MYMV) coat protein (CP) gene was attempted. Yellow mosaic symptomatic samples were identified through PCR using conserved region primers designed after alignment of the available CP sequences in NCBI data base. Sequence analysis of the PCR amplified samples showed 97% sequence similarities with the coat protein gene of Mungbean Yellow Mosaic India Virus (MYMIV) Bangladesh strain and was designated as MYMIV-BD. This appears to be the first report of the molecular identification of MYMV in Bangladesh. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ptcb.v22i1.11263Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 22(1): 73-81, 2012 (June)
Direct Organogenesis of Passiflora foetida L. through Nodal Explants
Authors: Anand S.P. , Jayakumar E. , Jeyachandran R. , Nandagobalan V. , Doss A.
Published: August 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ptcb.v22i1.11266Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 22(1): 87-91, 2012  (June)
A study on incidence of gastrointestinal parasites in buffaloes from different slaughter houses of Chittagong Metropolitan Area
Authors: Hossain Mohammad Belayet , Mahmud Md Selim , Das Shubaghata , Alim Md Abdul , Shaikat Amir Hossan , Hashem Md Abdul
Published: August 2012

The study was conducted to investigate the incidence of gastrointestinal parasites of buffalo in different slaughter houses of Chittagong Metropolitan Area, Bangladesh. A total of 100 faecal samples were collected from three slaughter houses and studied by coproscopic examinations. Direct smear, sedimentation and floatation techniques along with egg micrometry were conducted to identify various parasitic eggs. Among 100 faecal samples 69% were positive for different individual parasitic infestation. Trematodes, nematodes, cestodes and protozoan infestations were 48%, 16%, 2% and 3%, respectively. Among the trematodes Schistosoma sp. (23%), Paramphistomum sp. (15%) and Fasciola sp. (10%) were found. Incidence of nematode infestations were Toxocara sp (4%), Oesophagostomum sp. (5%), Cooperia sp. (2%), Bunostomum sp. (3%) and 1% for both Trihostrongylus sp. and Strongyloides sp. Mixed infection were observed 7% of positive samples. Results indicate that the heavy worm burden in buffaloes causes severe economic loss to the farmers by reducing the overall productivity.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ujzru.v30i0.10703 Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 30, 2011 pp. 05-07
New records of butterflies and their species diversity in four different areas of Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Islam ATM Fayezul , Islam M H , Saifullah ASM , Endo K , Yamanaka Akira
Published: August 2012

Field studies of butterflies were carried out in four different selected areas i.e. Krishnopur, AERE campus, Rajalak Farm and Horters (Part of JU campus) at Savar, Dhaka. Butterflies identified of those areas constituted 158 species belonging 10 families, 87 species of which are newly-recorded in Bangladesh. Numbers of species identified in each family reached 47 in Lycaenidae (30 newly recorded), 32 in Hesperiidae (22 new), 22 in Pieridae (11 new), 19 in Nymphalidae (6 new), 14 in Papilionidae (7 new), 14 in Saytridae (8 new), 5 in Danaidae (1 new), 3 in Riodinidae (1 new), 1 in Acraeidae and 1 newly recorded Amathusiidae. The maximum 130 species and the minimum 65 species were recorded in Krishnopur and Rajalak Farm, respectively. Almost all butterfly families were found to be dominant in Krishnopur. Among the total identified species, 35.44% belonged to very rare (VR) and 20.25% to rare (R) categories, whereas 12.18%, 12.03% and 13.29% species were very common (VC), common (C) and not rare (NR) categories, respectively. It may be that the numbers of butterfly species as well as their fauna vary greatly depending on the floral and ecological conditions in and around the study areas.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ujzru.v30i0.10713Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 30, 2011 pp. 09-15
Some aspects of the reproductive biology and sex-ratio of Cirrhina reba (Hamilton) (Cyprinidae : Cypriniformes)
Authors: Akther Sarmin , Akther Shirin
Published: August 2012

Some aspects of the reproductive biology viz. sex-ratio gonadal length index (G.L.I.), gonado somatic index (G.S.I.) and sex-ratio of Cirrhina reba were studied during September 2004 to July 2005. In present study the highest values of GLI (33.76) and GSI (0.63) were in the month of July. Total length (TL) and gonadal length (GL), total weight (TW) and gonadal weight ( GW ), standard length (SL) and gonadal length ( GL ) and gonadal weight relationships were found to be positive; and the relationships were: GL = -3.873 + 0.219 TL (r = 0.992), GW = 0.01511+0.000815 TL (r = 0.979), GL = -2.6030+0.253 SL (r = 0.990), GL = 0.01997+0.000938 SL (r= 0.976), GW = 13.2952+0.6064 TW (r = 0.958), GW = 0.0772+0.00233 TW (r = 0.979). The sex- ratio of C. reba were 1:1.62 for male and female respectively. The Chi-square test showed significant differences of sex-ratio among months and totals.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ujzru.v30i0.10739Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 30, 2011 pp. 21-24
Seasonal abundance of spider mite Tetranychus urticae Koch on vegetable and ornamental plants in Rajshahi
Authors: Haque Minhajul , Islam Tamanna , Naher Najmoon , Haque Mohd Mainul
Published: August 2012

The seasonal abundance of spider mite T. urticae on twenty vegetable and twenty four ornamental plants in Rajshahi was conducted during August 2010 to January 2011. The mite was present on joscpks coat, kathua, ladys finger, cucumber, brinjal, tomato, bottle gourd, bean, loofah, spinach, bitter melon, pointed gourd, radish, and cowpea but no mite was recorded on other six plants. But all the ornamental plants bagan-bilash, bottlebrush, nayantara, morog-jhuti, hasnahena, chandramallika, dalia, krisno-chura, togor, joba, madhobilata, rongon, beli, daisy, sondhamaloti, kamini, musanda, rakto-karobi, shewli, kath-golap, rajanigandha, golap, ganda, zinia contained mites. The pick population was prevailed during August. The increase of mite number is directly related with the increase of temperature. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ujzru.v30i0.10745Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 30, 2011 pp. 37-40
Diversity of avifauna at the Bangladesh Academy for Rural Development (BARD), Kotbari, Comilla
Authors: Jaman M Firoj , Rahman Md Saidur , Haque Muhammad Enamul
Published: August 2012

The diversity of avifauna at the BARD (Bangladesh Academy for Rural Development), Comilla was studied from March, 2010 to March, 2011. A total of 41 species of birds (20 non-passerines and 21passerines) were identified. Among the total species, 37 (90.25%) were resident and 4 (9.75%) were winter migrants. Regarding to the habitat types utilized by individual species, 11 was bush dwellers, 5 at open place, 5 on human habitations, 4 on tall trees, 10 in garden, 6 found at near the pond. Relative abundance (by number) showed that 10 species were very common, 25 common, 9 fairly common and 7 few. The highest density was recorded for Passer domesticus (480.15 indiv. / acre) and the lowest was for Dicrurus macrocercus (1.29 indiv. / acre). Among these birds, 18 (43.91%) species were insectivores, 6 (14.64%) piscivores, 6 (14.64%) granivores, 2 (4.88%) frugivores, 4 (9.76%) rodentivores, only one (2.44%) nectar feeder and the rest 3 (7.32%) were mixed feeders. Among the avifauna, 8 (21.63%) species were included in the threatened category, of which 2 (5.41%) were critically endangered, 3 (8.11%) endangered and 3 (8.11%) vulnerable nationally. Direct communication with local people recorded that illegal exploitation of forest, trapping, shooting of birds and collection of young as cage birds are the mentionable causes of decline of the diversity and population of avifauna in the study area. Control of unwise exploitation, plantation of indigenous fruit-trees and creation of awareness, preparation of integrated management action plan (IMAP) and its implementation in co-operation with National and International organizations are mostly essential for conservation of avian diversity in the study area.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ujzru.v30i0.10746Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 30, 2011 pp. 41-44
Conservation of breeding colonies of the bank myna, Acridotheres ginginianus (Latham 1790), in Chapai Nawabganj, Bangladesh
Authors: Ahsan M Farid , Kabir M Tarik
Published: August 2012

A study on the conservation on breeding colonies of bank myna, Acridotheres ginginianus (Latham 1790), was conducted in Chapai Nawabganj district of Bangladesh during a period from June 2007 to October 2009. The total population in the breeding colonies was estimated as 4,452. The preferable breeding habitats of bird are bank of the river, soil heap/ditches of brickfield and holes of culvert. Environmental calamities such as bank erosion and flooding, drought and rain affect the breeding colonies. Human settlement near breeding habitats, hunting, collecting eggs and nestlings by children, and use of nets to prevent nesting at bank of the river are the main human impacts on the breeding colonies. Major threats are flood, children-fun, predators and human for its meat. Conservation awareness for this species have depicted in this paper.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ujzru.v30i0.10753Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 30, 2011 pp. 49-53
Availability of small indigenous species (SIS) of fish in the Chalan Beel - the largest wetland of Bangladesh
Authors: Kostori Fahmida Aktar , Parween Selina , Islam M Nazrul
Published: August 2012

An investigation was conducted to study the abundance and diversity of Small Indigenous Species (SIS) of fish in the Chalan Beel. Sampling was carried out frequently over a year in selected landing centres, fish markets and catch points. A total of 82 SIS fish belonging to 10 orders, 22 families and 46 genera were recorded. The order Cypriniformes (42.68%) was the most dominant order comprising 35 species. The most dominant family of the order Cypiniformes was Cyprinidae (77.14%) comprising 27 species, and Puntius was the largest genus including 7 species. The most abundant SIS fishes observed during the study period were Tengra (Mystus vittatus, M. tengara), Punti (Puntius sophore and P. ticto), Taki (Channa punctatus), Guchi Baim (Mastacembelus pancalus), and the least abundant SIS fish were Aplocheilus panchax, Badis badis, Danio sp. and Chaca chaca. Availability of the species were ranked as Few (39%), followed by Common (23%), Very Common (15%), Rare (16%) and Very Rare (7%). At Mohisluti fish landing centre (under Tarash, Sirajganj) the highest number of species (79, 96.34%) of small fishes were found. Abundance of different SIS fishes were found to vary with the season. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ujzru.v30i0.10756Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 30, 2011 pp. 67-72
Improved quality and quantity of written feedback is associated with a structured feedback proforma
Authors: Newton Philip M. , Wallace Melisa J. , McKimm Judy
Published: August 2012

Facilitating the provision of detailed, deep and useful feedback is an important design feature of any educational programme. Here we evaluate feedback provided to medical students completing short transferable skills projects. Feedback quantity and depth were evaluated before and after a simple intervention to change the structure of the feedback-provision form from a blank free-text feedback form to a structured proforma that asked a pair of short questions for each of the six domains being assessed. Each pair of questions consisted of asking the marker ?占퐓hat was done well???and ?占퐓hat changes would improve the assignment???Changing the form was associated with a significant increase in the quantity of the feedback and in the amount and quality of feedback provided to students. We also observed that, for these double-marked projects, the marker designated as ?占퐉arker 1??consistently wrote more feedback than the marker designated ?占퐉arker 2??
1H and 195Pt NMR Study of the Parallel Two-Chain Compound Per2[Pt(mnt)2]
Authors: Green Elizabeth L. , Lumata Lloyd L. , Brooks James S. , Kuhns Phil , Reyes Arneil , Brown Stuart E. , Almeida Manuel
Published: August 2012

1H and 195Pt NMR are used to probe the spin ½ anion chain in the quasi-one-dimensional conductor Per2[Pt(mnt)2], which exhibits nearly simultaneous charge density wave (CDW) and spin-Peierls (SP) transitions at low temperatures (Tc ~ 8 K). Below Tc the [Pt(mnt)2] chain forms a spin-singlet state that is evident in 1H NMR spectra and spin relaxation (1/T1) rates; however minority unpaired Pt spins may remain in the SP ground state. With increasing magnetic field, the SP and CDW order parameters decrease in unison, indicating they are coupled up to a critical field Bc ~ 20 T. Above Bc, the spin singlet evolves into a spin-polarized configuration. The 195Pt NMR signals vanish as either Tc or Bc are approached from within the SP ground state, suggesting the hyperfine field of the Pt nucleus is significantly stronger than at the proton sites. Simulations yield a consistent picture of the angular, temperature, and magnetic field-dependent spectral features.
The Short Series of the Oxygen-Poor Lanthanide Oxide Selenides M10OSe14 with M = La–Nd
Authors: Weber Frank A. , Schurz Christian M. , Frunder Susanne , Kuhn Charlotte F. , Schleid Thomas
Published: August 2012

Single crystals and phase pure samples of oxygen-poor ternary lanthanide oxide selenides with the composition M10OSe14 (M = La–Nd; tetragonal, I41/acd; a = 1592.0–1559.8 pm, c = 2106.5–2062.9 pm) could be obtained by reacting the corresponding metals, selenium and selenium dioxide as oxygen source. Their crystal structures are isotypic with Pr10OS14 and thus contain isolated [OM4]10+ tetrahedra (d(O2––M3+) = 243–248 pm) embedded in a complex anionic {[M6Se14]10–} lanthanide selenide matrix (d(M3+–Se2–) = 288–358 pm). All three crystallographically independent M3+ cations exhibit eight contacts to chalcogenide anions (O2– and/or Se2–) resulting in the formation of bicapped trigonal prismatic coordination polyhedra. The optical band gaps of the oxide selenides M10OSe14 amount to values between 1.89 and 2.04 eV indicating wide band-gap semiconductors.
APA2[Zn3(HPO4)4(H2O)2], a Layered Zincophosphate Featuring Template-to-Framework N–H⋯O and “Synergic” Framework-to-Template O–H⋯N Hydrogen Bonds and C–H⋯O Interactions (APA = 2-Amino-1-phenyleneammonium, C6H9N2+)
Authors: Aughey Joel C. , Harrison William T. A. , Slawin Alexandra M. Z.
Published: August 2012

The crystal structure of APA2[Zn3(HPO4)4(H2O)2] (APA = 2-amino-1-phenylene-ammonium, C6H9N2+) (1), as prepared by a predominantly non-aqueous synthesis, is described and compared to related compounds. 1 is built up from an alternating array of ZnO4 and HPO4 tetrahedra sharing vertices as Zn–O–P bonds to generate infinite anionic sheets. Within these sheets, polyhedral 4-, 6- and 8-rings are apparent. The negative charge of the inorganic layer is balanced by singly-protonated APA template cations and water molecules are also present. The components are linked by Nt–H⋯Of, Of–H⋯Ow, Ow–H⋯Of and Of–H⋯Nt (t = template, f = framework, w = water) hydrogen bonds: the last of these represents an unusual framework-to-template interaction. Weak Ct–H⋯Of links may also play a role in consolidating the structure. Crystal data: 1 (C12H26N4O18P4Zn3), Mr = 834.36, monoclinic, C2/c (No. 15), Z = 4, a = 20.194 (8) Å, b = 8.682 (3) Å, c = 15.123 (6) Å, β = 91.510 (11)°, V = 2650.5 (17) Å3, R(F) = 0.048, wR(F2) = 0.112.
Epidemiologic Methods Lessons Learned from Environmental Public Health Disasters: Chernobyl, the World Trade Center, Bhopal, and Graniteville, South Carolina
Authors: Svendsen Erik R. , Runkle Jennifer R. , Dhara Venkata Ramana , Lin Shao , Naboka Marina , Mousseau Timothy A. , Bennett Charles L.
Published: August 2012

Background: Environmental public health disasters involving hazardous contaminants may have devastating effects. While much is known about their immediate devastation, far less is known about long-term impacts of these disasters. Extensive latent and chronic long-term public health effects may occur. Careful evaluation of contaminant exposures and long-term health outcomes within the constraints imposed by limited financial resources is essential. Methods: Here, we review epidemiologic methods lessons learned from conducting long-term evaluations of four environmental public health disasters involving hazardous contaminants at Chernobyl, the World Trade Center, Bhopal, and Graniteville (South Carolina, USA). Findings: We found several lessons learned which have direct implications for the on-going disaster recovery work following the Fukushima radiation disaster or for future disasters. Interpretation: These lessons should prove useful in understanding and mitigating latent health effects that may result from the nuclear reactor accident in Japan or future environmental public health disasters.
Intestinal Helminth Infections and Nutritional Status of Children Attending Primary Schools in Wakiso District, Central Uganda
Authors: Lwanga Francis , Kirunda Barbara Eva , Orach Christopher Garimoi
Published: August 2012

A cross-sectional study to assess the prevalence of intestinal helminth infections and nutritional status of primary school children was conducted in the Wakiso district in Central Uganda. A total of 432 primary school children aged 6–14 years were randomly selected from 23 schools. Anthropometric measurements of weight, height, MUAC were undertaken and analyzed using AnthroPlus software. Stool samples were examined using a Kato-Katz method. The prevalence of stunting, underweight and moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) was 22.5%, 5.3% and 18.5% respectively. Males had a threefold risk of being underweight (OR 3.2, 95% CI 1.17–9.4, p = 0.011) and 2 fold risk of suffering from MAM (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.21–3.48, p = 0.004). Children aged 10–14 years had a 2.9 fold risk of stunting (OR 2.9, 95% CI 1.37–6.16, p = 0.002) and 1.9 risk of MAM (OR 1.9, 95% CI 1.07–3.44, p = 0.019). Attending urban slum schools had 1.7 fold risk of stunting (OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.03–2.75, p = 0.027). Rural schools presented a twofold risk of helminth infection (OR 1.95, 95% CI 1.12–3.32, p = 0.012). The prevalence of helminth infections was (10.9%), (3.1%), (1.9%), (0.2%) for hookworm, Trichuria trichiura, Schistosoma mansoni and Ascaris lumbricoides, respectively. The study revealed that 26.6%, 46% and 10.3% of incidences of stunting, underweight and MAM respectively were attributable to helminth infections.