bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monitoring and evaluating the ecological integrity of forest ecosystems
Authors: Tierney Geraldine L , Faber-Langendoen Don , Mitchell Brian R , Shriver W Gregory , Gibbs James P
Published: January 2009

“Ecological integrity” provides a useful framework for ecologically based monitoring and can provide valuable information for assessing ecosystem condition and management effectiveness. Building on the related concepts of biological integrity and ecological health, ecological integrity is a measure of the composition, structure, and function of an ecosystem in relation to the system's natural or historical range of variation, as well as perturbations caused by natural or anthropogenic agents of change. We have developed a protocol to evaluate the ecological integrity of temperate zone, forested ecosystems, based on long‐term monitoring data. To do so, we identified metrics of status and trend in structure, composition, and function of forests impacted by multiple agents of change. We used data, models, and the scientific literature to interpret and report integrity using “stoplight” symbology, ie “Good” (green), “Caution” (yellow), or “Significant Concern” (red). Preliminary data indicate that forested ecosystems in Acadia National Park have retained ecological integrity across a variety of metrics, but that some aspects of soil chemistry and stand structure indicate potential problems. This protocol was developed for the National Park Service Vital Signs Monitoring Program and holds promise for application in the temperate zone, forested ecosystems of eastern North America.
Sexual Assault in Men: A Population-Based Study of Virginia
Authors: Masho Saba W. , Anderson Lisa
Published: January 2009

Male sexual assault is a serious public health issue that is mostly underreported and unrecognized. A population-based study was conducted on 705 adult men in Virginia. The study found a lifetime prevalence of 12.9% among men, with 94% assaulted for the first time before the age of 18. Regression analysis showed that male victims of sexual violence were 3.4 times more likely to be depressed and 2.4 times more likely to ideate suicide. However, only 15.4% sought counseling. This study confirms that male sexual assault is a prevalent problem. It is also evident that victimized men were more likely to be depressed and ideate suicide and yet did not seek health services. Efforts should be made to reach men with a history of sexual assault.
Nanoparticle characteristics affecting environmental fate and transport through soil
Authors: Darlington Thomas K. , Neigh Arianne M. , Spencer Matthew T. , Guyen Oanh T. N. , Oldenburg Steven J.
Published: January 2009

Nanoparticles are being used in broad range of applications; therefore, these materials probably will enter the environment during their life cycle. The objective of the present study is to identify changes in properties of nanoparticles released into the environment with a case study on aluminum nanoparticles. Aluminum nanoparticles commonly are used in energetic formulations and may be released into the environment during their handling and use. To evaluate the transport of aluminum nanoparticles, it is necessary not only to understand the properties of the aluminum in its initial state but also to determine how the nanoparticle properties will change when exposed to relevant environmental conditions. Transport measurements were conducted with a soil-column system that delivers a constant upflow of a suspension of nanoparticles to a soil column and monitors the concentration, size, agglomeration state, and charge of the particles in the eluent. The type of solution and surface functionalization had a marked effect on the charge, stability, and agglomeration state of the nanoparticles, which in turn impacted transport through the receiving matrix. Transport also is dependent on the size of the nanoparticles, although it is the agglomerate size, not the primary size, that is correlated with transportability. Electrostatically induced binding events of positively charged aluminum nanoparticles to the soil matrix were greater than those for negatively charged aluminum nanoparticles. Many factors influence the transport of nanoparticles in the environment, but size, charge, and agglomeration rate of nanoparticles in the transport medium are predictive of nanoparticle mobility in soil.
Education in the Learning Economy: A European Perspective
Authors: Lundvall Bengt-Åke , Rasmussen Palle , Lorenz Edward
Published: January 2009

Innovation is crucial to the competitiveness of the economies of Europe, and learning is crucial to innovation. The most important trend shift is not that knowledge is becoming more important but that it is becoming obsolete more rapidly than before, so that firms and employees constantly have to learn and acquire new competencies. This involves different types of knowledge of which the less formalised, learnt through experience, are often just as important as the formalised, learnt through exposure to teaching. The article opens with a presentation of different categories of knowledge, their consequences for approaches to education and the concept of the learning economy. Drawing on cross-national data it is then shown how European economies are characterised by dramatic differences in work organisation and learning at the workplace. The authors illustrate how such differences are linked not only to inequality of access to workplace learning but also to institutional and cultural differences between different national school systems in Europe. They argue that traditional schooling, isolated from society and organised according to traditional disciplines and educational methods, is insufficient in the context of the learning economy. Educational principles and cultures focusing on collaboration, interdisciplinarity and engagement with real-life problems are needed to prepare people for flexible and innovative participation in the economy and society.
Islam, Christianity and Secularism in European Education
Authors: Daun Holger
Published: January 2009

At a very general (‘civilisational’) level, compulsory and upper secondary education in Europe is based in the Christian tradition and does not easily tolerate other types of education. Europe is the only continent that has been able to combine modernisation and secularisation, and this has continuously favoured religious schools of the Christian type but disfavoured Muslim initiatives. Also, during the past decade all the education systems have been required to produce competitiveness and social cohesion. The first requirement has made education more focused on intellectual, technical and cognitive features and less on values and morals. The second requirement derives from the cleavages resulting from the drive for competitiveness as well as flows of immigrants and minority demands for their rights. However, none of the pressures, drives and requirements has resulted in any deep-going change in the multicultural direction of European education.
Single-ion anisotropy in a four-spin system: mixing of S-states
Authors: Florek Wojciech , Jaśniewicz-Pacer Katarzyna , Kaliszan Leonard , Kamieniarz Grzegorz
Published: January 2009

A four-spin system with s=1 and the single-ion anisotropy, D∑ j [s jz ] 2 , is considered. When D≠0 the Hamiltonian of the system does not commute with S 2 and, therefore, S cannot be used as an additional label of energy levels. In this work we concentrate on the problem of mixing states with different total spins S. The Hamiltonian matrix is transformed to the symmetry-adapted basis (with subspaces labeled by the irreducible representations of the symmetry group) and next, after solving the eigenproblem for S 2, to the basis with vectors labeled by S. Each eigenproblem is solved exactly (at least numerically) and the eigenstates are expressed as ∑S a S ¦S〉. The coefficients aS are analyzed, especially for their D-dependence. Even in such a small system different schemes of level mixing can be observed.
Habitat use and home range size of red foxes in Prince Edward Island (Canada) based on snow-tracking and radio-telemetry data
Authors: Silva Marina , Johnson Karen , Opps Sheldon
Published: January 2009

There is a lack of information regarding the ecology and behaviour of red foxes that can be used to elaborate effective management programs for this species on Prince Edward Island (Canada). The main goal of this study was to provide baseline information on habitat selection and home range size of red foxes on Prince Edward Island. Data were collected from snow-tracking and radio-telemetry sessions conducted in two study sites (including one site within Prince Edward Island National Park). Our results indicated that red foxes selected for roads and human-use areas during both the breeding and the kit-rearing seasons in the park. Outside the park, however, the data failed to conclusively show that foxes have a unique preference for human-use habitats or roads. Forests were selected against in both study sites. Although roads are frequently visited by foxes during the kit-rearing season in the park, each individual fox typically stays in this habitat only for short periods of time (< 15 min). This finding suggests that foraging efficiency along the roads is very high possibly reflecting the abundance of anthropogenic food sources. Overall, we present the largest amount of data on habitat selection ever collected for red foxes in Prince Edward Island, Canada. Our results show that food sources in human-use areas and roads are altering the selection and/or use of habitats of red foxes in some areas of Prince Edward Island.
The knockdown of c-myc expression by RNAi inhibits cell proliferation in human colon cancer HT-29 cells in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Ge Yin-Lin , Tian Run-Hua
Published: January 2009

We investigated the effects of RNA interference-mediated silencing of the c-myc gene on celluar proliferation and apoptosis in human colon cancer HT-29 cells in vitro and in vivo. A small interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting c-myc was designed, the DNA template was synthesized, and the siRNA was obtained by in vitro transcription. After siRNA transfection into HT-29 and human neuroblastoma IMR-32 cells with Lipofectamine 2000™, the proliferation of the HT-29 and IMR-32 cells was assessed via 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) colorimetry, and Hoechst 33258 staining was used to observe cell apoptosis. Following gene transfer to HT-29 cells, the expression of c-myc mRNA was examined via reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, and the level of the protein via Western blot assay. Growth curves were constructed and in vivo experiments were performed on nude mice to assess the effects of c-myc silencing on tumor growth. The c-myc expression in the tumor tissue was measured by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and subsequently by immunohistochemistry. Our paper demonstrates that the delivery of siRNA directed against c-myc not only efficiently down-regulated the expression of c-myc, inhibited the proliferation of HT-29 cells and induced apoptosis in vitro, but also suppressed the growth of colon cancer cells in vivo.
Plantar Pressure Pain Thresholds and Touch Sensitivity in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Hodge Margaret C. , Nathan Denise , Bach Timothy M.
Published: January 2009

Background: In-shoe pressure redistribution to provide relief of forefoot pain in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is based on assumed links between pressure and pain. However, little is known about the size of the pressure change required to reduce pain or the capacity of other plantar regions to bear increased pressure. Our primary aim was to quantify the plantar pressure pain threshold (PPT) in RA and compare it to age- and gender-matched control participants. Materials and Methods: This controlled trial involved 10 RA participants and 10 age- and gender-matched control subjects. PPT, measured using a force gauge, and touch sensitivity, measured via Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments, were tested in 19 plantar regions. Results: RA plantar PPTs were significantly reduced in eight foot regions ( p < 0.05) and were more uniform across the plantar surface. Touch sensitivity was not different between groups. Plantar PPT was significantly related to age ( p < 0.05) and to touch sensitivity ( p < 0.05) in multiple foot regions of the control group but not in RA. PPT was significantly correlated with disease duration ( p < 0.05). Conclusion: Plantar PPTs in RA were 60% to 80% of the control group and may be helpful in predicting the amount of pressure reduction needed to relieve pain. This study provides further evidence that RA disturbs normal pain sensory mechanisms.

Level of Evidence: III, Retrospective Case Control
Fusion Versus Excision of the Symptomatic Type II Accessory Navicular: A Prospective Study
Authors: Scott Aaron T. , Sabesan Vani J. , Saluta Jonathan R. , Wilson Melanie A. , Easley Mark E.
Published: January 2009

Background: Patients with symptomatic Type II accessory naviculars that fail nonoperative measures may be treated with excision, percutaneous drilling, a modified Kidner procedure, or a fourth option, arthrodesis of the accessory ossicle to the navicular body. There is little information in the literature on the relative merits of arthrodesis. Materials and Methods: A prospective evaluation of 20 patients undergoing surgical intervention for symptomatic Type II accessory naviculars was performed. The decision to perform either an arthrodesis (10 feet) or a modified Kidner (10 feet) was made intraoperatively based on the size of the accessory ossicle. Outcomes were measured using pre- and postoperative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Midfoot scores, plain radiographs, and chart reviews. Results: At an average followup of 35 months, the mean AOFAS score for the arthrodesis group improved from 50 to 93 points. There were two non-unions (20%) and one patient complained of painful hardware. At an average followup of 48 months, the mean AOFAS score for the modified Kidner group improved from 52 to 80 points. However, in this group, three of ten patients (30%) had persistent midfoot pain and radiographic evidence of progressive loss of the longitudinal arch. Conclusion: Although the methods do not represent a randomized comparison of treatments for the same condition, the results suggest that arthrodesis may be a reasonable treatment option in selected cases of patients with symptomatic recalcitrant Type II accessory naviculars that are large enough to accept small fragment screws.

Level of Evidence: III, Retrospective Case Control Study
Long-term Results of Mitchell's Procedure for Hallux Valgus Deformity: A 5- to 20-year Followup in 204 Cases
Authors: Dermon Antonios , Tilkeridis Constantinos , Lyras Dimitrios , Tryfonidis Marios , Petrou Charis , Tzanis Stavrakis , Kazakos Konstantinos , Petrou Georgios
Published: January 2009

Background: There are limited studies on the long term outcome of Mitchell's osteotomy for hallux valgus deformity. We present the long term results of 204 cases. Materials and Methods: Postoperative clinical and radiological evaluation with a mean follow up of 12.9 years was performed on patients with preoperative hallux valgus angles (HVA) of up to 50 degrees and intermetatarsal angles (IMA) of up to 20 degrees. Two crossed Kirschner wires were used to fix the capital fragment; lateral soft tissue release performed when deemed necessary. Comparisons were made between the pre- and postoperative measurements using a Mann-Whitney U-test. Statistical significance was defined at p < 0.05. Results: The mean AOFAS score improved from 49.6 to 87.9 points ( p = 0.004). There was significant improvement in the HVA and IMA, 33.8 degrees versus 16.1 degrees ( p = 0.002) and 15.2 degrees versus 8.2 degrees ( p = 0.004), respectively. Fifty-seven cases (27.9%) had preoperative HVA greater than 40 degrees but only 16 required lateral soft tissue release with no significant difference in the postoperative HVA (21.3 versus 20.8, p = 0.08). There was a significant change in lateral metatarsalgia and symptomatic callosities (18.3% versus 11.8%, p = 0.023). In 97.6% of cases the patients were satisfied with the overall result. Revision surgery was performed in five cases (2.5%). Conclusion: Mitchell's osteotomy was a reliable technique with successful outcome and low complication rate when performed with Kirschner wire fixation and lateral soft tissue release when appropriate. It may also be successfully performed with hallux valgus angles greater than 40 degrees.

Level of Evidence: IV, Retrospective Case Series
Results of Distal Metatarsal Osteotomy Using Absorbable Pin Fixation
Authors: Morandi Alberto , Dupplicato Paolo , Sansone Valerio
Published: January 2009

Background: Metatarsalgia with plantar hyperkeratosis can be a difficult problem to treat. Many different techniques have been reported with the Weil osteotomy very popular currently. Despite good results complications include metatarsophalangeal stiffness, hyperextension of the toe, prehensile deficit and a reduction in strength. We evaluated our results with a distal diaphyseal osteotomy. Materials and Methods: From 1999 to 2005, we performed 66 distal midshaft subtraction osteotomies in 62 patients suffering from metatarsal overload without metatarsophalangeal subluxation. Fixation was obtained with an absorbable pin. Some patients underwent simultaneous corrective surgery for hallux valgus, hallux rigidus or lesser toe deformities. There was an average of 18 months followup. Results: The mean preoperative Maryland score was 52; the mean postoperative score was 86. Seventy-two percent of the patients were very satisfied and 28% felt their condition improved with only occasional pain (VAS 2 to 4). The only complications reported was a loss of correction due to breakage of the pins in three patients (two sustained trauma and the third began walking prematurely without a postoperative shoe). Conclusion: The good clinical results obtained and the low incidence of complications have encouraged us to use this technique to treat symptomatic metatarsal overload. Surgical accuracy, adherence to the postoperative regimen and, where necessary, adequate correction of the first ray were important factors for success.

Level of Evidence:
Radiographic Evaluation for AVN Following Distal Metatarsal Stoffella Bunion Osteotomy
Authors: Klein Christian , Zembsch Alexander , Dorn Ulrich
Published: January 2009

Background: Avascular necrosis of the metatarsal head, delayed bone healing and nonunion are complications that may occur after distal first metatarsal osteotomies. Intraoperative damage to the extraosseous blood supply, the location of the osteotomy and postoperative vasospasm have been cited as possible causes of such changes. We evaluated Stoffella's subcapital osteotomies which were performed at our department for the correction of moderate to severe hallux valgus deformities. Materials and Methods: Standardized radiographs of 300 feet, taken 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months postoperatively and at the final followup were examined with regard to postoperative AVN or signs of delayed bone healing. Of 228 patients, 202 were women and 26 were men. The patients' mean age was 49 years, and the mean followup was 12 months. Results: In 278 cases the radiographs revealed an unremarkable first metatarsal head. Seventeen cases showed diffuse or localized osteopenia or small cysts in the subchondral bone. These changes fully resolved on subsequent radiographs. The X-rays of two patients revealed progressive narrowing of the joint space, irregular contours on the surface of the joint and an abnormal bone structure. The patients subsequently developed a characteristic picture of avascular necrosis, in one case combined with nonunion. Three patients had delayed bone healing, but ultimately healed successfully. Conclusion: Ischemic changes in bone are known to occur after distal first metatarsal osteotomies. There is a very low incidence of postoperative perfusion problems after Stoffella's technique, even with lateral soft tissue release.

Level of Evidence: IV, Retrospective Case Series
Cadaveric Simulation of a Pes Cavus Foot
Authors: Daines S. Bradley , Rohr Eric S. , Pace Andrew P. , Fassbind Michael J. , Sangeorzan Bruce J. , Ledoux William R.
Published: January 2009

Background: The pes cavus deformity has been well described in the literature; relative bony positions have been determined and specific muscle imbalances have been summarized. However, we are unaware of a cadaveric model that has been used to generate this foot pathology. The purpose of this study was to create such a model for future work on surgical and conservative treatment simulation. Materials and Methods: We used a custom designed, pneumatically actuated loading frame to apply forces to otherwise normal cadaveric feet while measuring bony motion as well as force beneath the foot. The dorsal tarsometatarsal and the dorsal intercuneiform ligaments were attenuated and three muscle imbalances, each similar to imbalances believed to cause the pes cavus deformity, were applied while bony motion and plantar forces were measured. Results: Only one of the muscle imbalances (overpull of the Achilles tendon, tibialis anterior, tibialis posterior, flexor hallucis longus and flexor digitorum longus) was successful at consistently generating the changes seen in pes cavus feet. This imbalance led to statistically significant changes including hindfoot inversion, talar dorsiflexion, medial midfoot plantar flexion and inversion, forefoot plantar flexion and adduction and an increase in force on the lateral mid- and forefoot. Conclusion: We have created a cadaveric model that approximates the general changes of the pes cavus deformity compared to normal feet. These changes mirror the general patterns of deformity produced by several disease mechanisms. Clinical Relevance: Future work will entail increasing the severity of the model and exploring various pes cavus treatment strategies.
Effects of Rigid and Dynamic Ankle-Foot Orthoses on Normal Gait
Authors: Guillebastre Bastien , Calmels Paul , Rougier Patrice
Published: January 2009

Background: As shown through posturographic data, wearing an ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) causes a backward shift in healthy subjects of the mean position of the center of pressure under the limb wearing it, and difficulty in controlling these displacements. This study evaluated whether this particular positioning influenced gait independent of a neurological disorder. Materials and Methods: Two AFO models, with different mechanical concepts (a rigid-AFO (R-AFO) and dynamic-AFO (D-AFO)), were worn by 11 healthy subjects required to walk on a 12-m electronic mat. Velocity, step time and step length were assessed for each of the five conditions where subjects walked barefoot, and wearing R-AFO or D-AFO (without and with slight and greater stiffness at the elastic band). Spatial and temporal characteristics of each support were also analyzed. Results: Although wearing R-AFO disturbed velocity, step length and time with an asymmetry between sides, wearing the D-AFO only affected a support characteristic (midline length: length between the pivot points of the two dimensional sensor structure of heel and toe area). No effect was seen when modifying the stiffness of the D-AFO model. Conclusion: Even though the posturographic data might partly explain this behavior, wearing an orthosis caused different effects on normal gait parameters. Clinical Relevance: These features should be useful when prescribing an ankle-foot orthosis by differentiating what alterations are due to the orthosis and which are due to the gait disorder.
Augmented Subatmospheric Wound Dressings (SAWDA): Technique Tip
Authors: Bluman Eric Michael , Hills Christopher , Keeling John Joseph , Hsu Joseph R.
Published: January 2009

Level of Evidence: V, Expert Opinion
Technical Tip: Fixation of Medial Malleolar Fractures Using a Suture Anchor
Authors: Loveday David T. , Arthur Angus , Tytherleigh-Strong Graham M.
Published: January 2009

Level of Evidence: V, Expert Opinion
Arthroscopic-assisted Fluoroscopic Navigation for Retrograde Drilling of a Talar Osteochondral Lesion
Authors: O'Loughlin Padhraig F. , Kendoff Daniel , Pearle Andrew D. , Kennedy John G.
Published: January 2009

Level of Evidence: V, Expert Opinion
Adjuvant Arthroscopy for Ankle Tuberculosis: A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Lin Renn-Chia , Lu Ko-Hsiu , Lue Ko-Huang
Published: January 2009

Level of Evidence: V, Case Report
Staged Total Ankle Arthroplasty Following Ilizarov Correction for Osteoarthritic Ankles with Complex Deformities: A Report of Three Cases
Authors: Lee Keun-Bae , Kong Il-Kyu , Seon Jong-Keun
Published: January 2009

Level of Evidence: V, Case Report
Study on the zooplankton of Sona Dighi in Rajshahi, Bangladesh
Authors: Naz Sabrina , Najia Sirajun
Published: January 2009

Zooplankton populations of Sona Dighi were remarkable. In all 31 genera and 45 species represented by five major groups have been reported from Sona Dighi, Rajshahi based on a year investigation. The recorded groups were as follows as Protozoa (5 genera, 4 species), Rotifera (7 genera, 11 species), Cladocera (6 genera, 8 species), Ostracoda (4 genera, 6 species) and Copepoda (9 genera, 15 species).Physical chemical characteristics and zooplankton diversity of the reservoir indicates its eutrophic nature. Key words: Zooplankton, Sona Dighi, Rajshahi, Bangladesh. Â  doi:10.3329/ujzru.v27i0.1945 Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 27, 2008 pp. 07-11
Isolation of pathogenic bacteria from the skin ulcerous symptomatic gourami (Colisa lalia) through 16S rDNA analysis
Authors: Hossain Mosharrof
Published: January 2009

Aeromonas spp infections are probably the most common bacterial disease diagnosed in cultured warm water fish. In the present study, six strains of Aeromonas spp bacteria were isolated from the gourami (Colisa lalia) by 16S rDNA sequencing analyses that are pathogenic to freshwater fish. Among them, three were under Aeromonas veronii species, two were Aeromonas sp ATCC and one was Aeromonas hydrophila. Colisa lalia usually imported in Korea from the South and South-east Asian countries for recreational purposes. However, they are playing important role as a disease vector or carriers. The infected fish of this study frequently have hemorrhages at the base of the fins or on the skin, and gross ulcerative lesions. Internal signs include, fluid in the abdomen, swollen liver and spleen, and the intestine was distended and fluid-filled. In this study, the utility of 16S rDNA sequencing was employed to isolate Aeromonas bacteria from freshwater imported fish are important to environment, veterinary, and clinical purposes. Key word: Bacteria, Colisa lalia, 16S rDNA, Aeromonas Â  doi:10.3329/ujzru.v27i0.1948 Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 27, 2008 pp. 21-24
Relative toxicity of some insecticides and azadirachtin against four crop infesting aphid species
Authors: Khalequzzaman M , Nahar Jesmun
Published: January 2009

Indirect application was used to assay the toxicity of five insecticides; viz. malathion, carbosulfan, cymbush, imidacloprid and azadirachtin against four important crop infesting aphid species, Aphis craccivora Koch, Aphis gossypii Glover, Myzus persicae (Sulzer) and Lipaphis erysimi (Kaltenbach), reared on bean, brinjal, potato and cauliflower plants respectively. Residual film technique was applied by bringing leaves with tested aphids of the vegetable plants in the laboratory. Malathion was the least toxic to all aphids having LC50 as 327.97, 333.92, 305.26 and 313.77 Î¼g cm-2 for A. craccivora, A. gossypii, M. persicae and M. persicae respectively. Cypermethrin was the most toxic showing LC50 as 12.55, 12.29, 12.55 and 12.10 Î¼g cm-2 in the above mentioned species of aphid respectively. Carbosulfan and imidacloprid showed moderate toxicity. Azadirachtin as a natural plant origin insecticide proved to be the most toxic having LC50 as 0.41 Î¼g cm-2 for A. craccivora, 0.34 Î¼g cm-2 for A. gossypii and 0.44 Î¼g cm-2 for both M. persicae and L. erysimi. Key words: Insecticide, toxicity, azadirachtin, Aphis craccivora, Aphis gossypii, Myzus persicae, Lipaphis erysimi Â  doi:10.3329/ujzru.v27i0.1950 Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 27, 2008 pp. 31-34
Physicochemical condition of two nursery ponds at Iswarganj, Mymensingh
Authors: Hossain M Kabil , Hossain MD , Rahman M Habibur , Afza R , Khanom DA
Published: January 2009

The research work was conducted to measure the nursery pond water quality parameters during the period of June 2006 to May 2007 in Mymensingh. The highest value of water temperature, alkalinity, ammonia, free carbon dioxide, DO, PH and hardness was 30.2Â°C (May'07) in pond-1, 174ppm (Feb.'07) in pond-2, 3.5ppm (July'06) in pond-1, 8.5ppm (Dec.'06&Jan.'07) in pond-1, 9ppm (July;06) in pond-1(also in April in pond-2), 8.4 (June'06) in pond-2 and 175ppm (Sep.'06) in pond-2 respectively. The lowest value of these parameters was 18Â°C (Jan.'07) in pond-2, 70ppm (Nov.'06) in pond-1, 0.03ppm (Sep.'06) in pond-2, 4ppm (Sep.'06) in pond-2, 5.5ppm (June'06) in pond-1, 6.2 (Oct.'06) in pond-2 and 64ppm (March'07) in pond-1. The value of physicochemical parameters of water had more or less significant combined effect on one another. Key words: Physicochemical, nursery pond, fish fry, disease Â  doi:10.3329/ujzru.v27i0.1952 Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 27, 2008 pp. 43-46
Growth performance of thai pangus (Pangasius hypophthalmus) in polyculture system using different supplementary feeds
Authors: Sayeed MAB , Hossain GS , Mistry SK , Huq KA
Published: January 2009

Thai pangus polyculture with carps has been increasing for its high potential, however very few attempts were made to compare its growth using different types of feed. A research was undertaken to assess the effect of three types of feed on growth of Thai pangus (Pangasius hypophthalmus) and rohu (Labeo rohita) in polyculture system for 11 months from 15 May 2005 to 15 April 2006 in Khulna. Growth performance using Hand-made Feed (F1) was compared with two commercial fish feed, Sunney Feed (F2) and Saudi-Bangla Feed (F3) in three respective treatments of T1, T2 and T3. All treatments were carried out in triplicate at 24700/ha for Thai pangus and 4940/ha for rohu. Average initial weight of Thai pangus and rohu were 4.5 and 33.5g respectively. Growth performance was influenced by feed type. Average final weight of Thai pangus and rohu were 820 and 710; 846 and 770; and 872 and 717g with specific growth rate 1.58 and 0.93; 1.59 and 0.95 and 1.60 and 0.93 % day -1 in T1, T2 and T3 respectively. Feed conversion ratio was estimated 2.3 in T1, 2.1 in T2 and 1.96 in T3. The result showed a typical increasing trend of final weight and specific growth rate of Thai pangus along with the increasing of feed protein level. But rohu showed highest growth in T2 where protein level was 26-30% which was lower than that of T3 (Protein level 28-32%). The study suggests that suitable protein level and quality feed is required for adequate growth of fish. Key words: Feed, Thai pangus, Polyculture, Growth. Â Â Â  doi:10.3329/ujzru.v27i0.1956 Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 27, 2008 pp. 59-62
Intestinal parasitic infestation and anaemic status among the adolescent boys in Bangladesh
Authors: Uddin Md Hafiz , Khanum Hamida
Published: January 2009

The prevalence of intestinal parasitic infestation and anaemic status of adolescent boys (age 10-19 years) of two selected villages, Kutumbopur, Comilla and Gazirchat, Dhaka districts was investigated. Anaemic status was determined by measuring hemoglobin percentage and parasitic infestation was detected and identified under microscope with wet mount and stained preparations. Out of 106 adolescent boys, only two (1.9%) showed severe anaemia. Among the other anaemic status, 50.9% was moderately anaemic, 39.6% mildly anaemic and 7.5% non anaemic. Adolescent boys were infected (49.01%) with one or more type of protozoan and helminth parasites. Both anaemia and parasitic infestation were more prevalent in Gazirchat while compared to Kutumbopur. Parasitic infestation and anaemia was not correlated. Key words: Anaemia, adolescent boys, Ascaris, Trichuris, Entamoeba, Giardia Â  doi:10.3329/ujzru.v27i0.1957 Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 27, 2008 pp. 63-65
Effects of age, body weight, body condition and scrotal circumference on sperm abnormalities of bulls used for artificial insemination (AI) programme in Bangladesh
Authors: Sarder Md Jalal Uddin
Published: January 2009

Impacts of age, body weight, body conditions, and scrotal circumference on sperm abnormalities of bulls used for artificial insemination (AI) in Bangladesh have been studied. During 1997-2002, 1390 ejaculates of semen from 71 bulls from Central Cattle Breeding Station and Dairy Farm, Savar, Dhaka, Rajshahi Dairy and Cattle Improvement Farm, Rajabarihat, and District Artificial Insemination Centre, Rajshahi, were collected and examined. Total head abnormalities, free loose head, mid-piece, tail abnormalities, proximal and distal cytoplamic droplets, total tail abnormalities and total sperm abnormalities were recorded. Age of the bulls had significant effect on sperm abnormalities (P < 0.01) except for proximal cytoplasmic droplet. Similarly, body weight had significant effect (P < 0.05) except for the total head abnormalities, while body conditions had no significant effect on mid-piece, total tail abnormalities and total sperm abnormalities except for the total head abnormalities. Scrotal circumference had significant effect (P < 0.05) on all the sperm abnormalities. The present results demonstrate that the middle (8 to < 10 yrs) and older (>10 yrs) bulls having body weight of < 450 kg, very good body condition and 36 to < 38 cm scrotal circumference had the lowest sperm abnormalities. The need for semen examination for morphological abnormalities of spermatozoa in bulls to be used for AI programme is strongly implicated by this study. Key words: Bull sperm abnormalities, age, body weight, body conditions, scrotal circumference, artificial insemination (AI) doi:10.3329/ujzru.v27i0.1959 Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 27, 2008 pp. 73-78Â Â
Cyanobacterial blooms and water quality in two urban fish ponds
Authors: Rahman Sharmeen , Jewel Md Abu Sayed
Published: January 2009

The occurrence and abundance of cyanobacterial population was monitored monthly in two urban fish ponds in Rajshahi City Corporation area from January to December, 2006. The bloom was observed in March, August and September. Some environmental parameters such as water temperature, transparency, pH, Dissolved Oxygen(DO), free Carbon dioxide(CO2), Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), NO2-N, NH3-N, NH4+, toxic ammonia, Oxidation reduction Index (rH2) were recorded and their relationship with the bloom formation by cyanobacteria are discussed. During the study period 23 species of cyanobacteria were identified. Among which Microcystis, Anabaena, Planktothrix were found to be the dominant genera. Microcystis aeruginosa was the most dominant species during the bloom period. At the peak bloom period, Microcystis aeruginosa comprised 81.64% and 83.24% of total cyanophyceae in pond-1 and pond-2, respectively. The initiation and persistence of natural bloom of cyanobacteria, especially Microcystis was found to be triggered by relatively high temperature (33.21-33.53Â°C), alkaline pH (8.8), and nutrient enrichment especially high NO2-N, NH3-N, and NH4+ concentration. Key words: Cyanobacterial bloom, nutrient, fish pond Â Â  doi:10.3329/ujzru.v27i0.1960 Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 27, 2008 pp. 79-84
Studies of some aspects of rodent ecology in the four districts of the gangetic plain of West Bengal, India
Authors: Santra Lalyan Brata , Manna Chanchal Kumar
Published: January 2009

This study has been conducted in four Districts (i.e., Nadia, North 24-Parganas, Hooghly and Burdwan) of the Gangetic plain of West Bengal, India. The results of the present study indicate that these Districts are badly infested by various types of rodents. Among them wild Indian house rat (Rattus rattus) is quite preponderant followed by field mice (Mus musculus), Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus) and Indian mole rat (Bandicota sp). Percentage of the female individual of these species is higher than the male individual. They cause severe types of damages in the fields and houses. In the District Nadia, Hooghly, North 24-Parganas and Burdwan, paddy and potato were damaged and estimated during the study period. Other crops and vegetables such as wheat, gourd, cauliflower, cabbage and jute were also damaged by the rodents. Household properties e.g., books, clothes, utensils and electronic goods were also destroyed by the rats. Damages were maximum in the mud built houses. They build their nest and burrows in the upland, trees and periphery of the field but extensive damages were noticed in the centre of the field. Rodents breed throughout the year but peak breeding seasons are August to October and late winter season and average litter size is about 6 to 8. The present study also points out the migratory behavior, hoarding materials in the burrows, nature of damages in relation to field conditions. For the control operation of the rodents and especially the rats, it is essential to have a clear-cut idea about the species present in the area, their habit and habitat, mode of burrowing, their movements, preference of food and a detailed life history of predominant rodent species. These aspects have been thoroughly studied in the present investigation. Key words: Gangetic plain, West Bengal, rodents, Rattus rattus, paddy, burrow. Â Â  doi:10.3329/ujzru.v27i0.1961 Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 27, 2008 pp. 85-90
Notes on Length-Weight Relationship and Condition Factor of Fresh Water Fish, Labeo boga (Hamilton) (Cypriniformes: Cyprinidae)
Authors: Pervin M Rokshanara , Mortuza M Golam
Published: January 2009

No Abstract Key words: Labeo boga, length-weight relationship, condition factor doi:10.3329/ujzru.v27i0.1964 Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 27, 2008 pp. 97-98
Occurrence of fishes and non-fin fishes of the river Padma near Rajshahi, Bangladesh
Authors: Bhuiyan SS , Joadder MAR , Bhuiyan AS
Published: January 2009

No Abstract doi:10.3329/ujzru.v27i0.1965 Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 27, 2008 pp. 99-100
The first direct synthesis of β-unsubstituted meso-decamethylcalix[5]pyrrole
Authors: Chacón-García Luis , Chávez Lizbeth , Cacho Denisse R , Altamirano-Hernández Josue
Published: January 2009

The first direct synthesis of β-unsubstituted meso-decamethylcalix[5]pyrrole from pyrrole and acetone, with moderate yield, is described. The results showed that a bismuth salt was necessary to obtain calix[5]pyrrole, with the best results obtained using Bi(NO3)3.
Stories about real and imagined landscapes: the case of Slovenian Istria
Authors: Urbanc Mimi
Published: January 2009

This paper presents the cultural landscape as an abstract concept and the result of a complex relationship between the natural environment and human society, and at the same time as a result of comprehension and personal views. A landscape is a story about the people that created it. The theoretical part establishes parallels between a landscape and the stories that this landscape has generated as well as their connection with geographical knowledge. This is followed by stories about real and imagined landscapes from Slovenian Istria, as ascertained through an analysis of extensive material using the ATLAS.ti software and taking into account the principles of grounded theory. This approaches a holistic view of the landscape, or understanding the landscape as a system of material and non-material elements and processes that direct them.
Spontaneous Formation of Complex Periodic Superstructures under High Interferential Illumination of Small‐Molecule‐Based Photochromic Materials
Authors: Ishow Eléna , Camacho‐Aguilera Rodolfo , Guérin Juliette , Brosseau Arnaud , Nakatani Keitaro
Published: January 2009

A series of push‐pull azo compounds containing bulky substituents are synthesized, yielding fully amorphous materials with glass‐transition temperatures above 200 °C. Thin films are subjected to holographic illumination and show superior bulk photomigration in terms of speed and efficiency compared to materials exhibiting similar electronic and photochromic properties in the solid state. The reported results give evidence that a microscopic consideration of the free volume rather than macroscopic parameters like the glass‐transition temperature should to be adopted to interpret the matrix stiffness and its deformation ability. Irradiation performed at higher laser intensity produces periodic superstructures whose height is five to six times as high as the initial film thickness. The surface tension and instability effects are put forward to interpret the growth of such superstructures.
Generic Method of Preparing Multifunctional Fluorescent Nanoparticles Using Flash NanoPrecipitation
Authors: Akbulut Mustafa , Ginart Paul , Gindy Marian E. , Theriault Christian , Chin Katherine H. , Soboyejo Winston , Prud'homme Robert K.
Published: January 2009

There is increased demand for nanoparticles with a high fluorescence yield that have the desired excitation wavelength, surface functionalization, and particle size to act as biological probes. Here, a simple, rapid, and robust method, Flash NanoPrecipitation (FNP), to produce such fluorescent nanoparticles is described. This process involves encapsulation of a hydrophobic fluorophore with an amphiphilic biocompatible diblock copolymer in a kinetically frozen state. FNP is used to produce nanoparticles ranging from 30 to 800 nm with fluorescence emission peaks ranging from, but not limited to, 370 nm to 720 nm. Such fluorescent nanoparticles remain stable in aqueous solutions, and, in contrast to soluble dyes, show no photobleaching. Fluorophores and drugs are incorporated into a single nanoparticle, allowing for simultaneous drug delivery and biological imaging. In addition, functionalization of nanoparticle surfaces with disease‐specific ligands permits precise cell targeting. These features make FNP‐produced fluorescent nanoparticles highly desirable for various biological applications.
Hospitalization in Winnipeg, Canada due to occupational disease: A pilot study
Authors: Kraut Allen G.
Published: January 2009

Background

The objectives of this study were to identify the extent of occupational exposures to hazardous substances amongst male medical inpatients and to determine the extent to which these exposures may have contributed to the development of medical conditions.

Methods

A random sample of 297 male who were admitted from outside the hospital to the medical wards to a large tertiary care hospital, were between age 18–75 and could communicate in English completed an occupational history questionnaire. This information was merged with an inpatient database which contained patient demographics, admission diagnoses, and co‐morbidity data. A specialist in occupational medicine and internal medicine determined whether the medical conditions the participants had were related to their exposures.

Results

One individual had a condition causing admission that was related to his work and 12 others (4%) had a condition that was possibly related to their work which had caused symptoms. One additional individual was found to have asymptomatic asbestos related pleural fibrosis. Fourteen of 37 possible harmful occupational exposures were reported by more than 10% of the study participants. On average each participant reported 5.5 exposures.

Conclusions

Occupational exposures to male medical inpatients are common. For 4.4% (13/297) of male admissions to the general medical wards from the emergency room occupational factors may have played a role in the development of medical conditions which led to admission or to major co‐morbidities. Detailed occupational histories will likely lead to more suspected cases of work related medical admissions. Am. J. Ind. Med. 52:372–379, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc
Cobalt Growth on the Tips of CdSe Nanorods
Authors: Maynadié Jérôme , Salant Asaf , Falqui Andrea , Respaud Marc , Shaviv Ehud , Banin Uri , Soulantica Katerina , Chaudret Bruno
Published: January 2009

Die Reduktion einer Organocobaltvorstufe auf CdSe‐Nanostäben ergibt zwei unterschiedliche Halbleiter‐Magnet‐Heterostrukturen (siehe Bild). Selektives Aufwachsen von Co an den Spitzen der CdSe‐Stäbe resultiert zunächst in Nanokügelchen‐Nanostab‐Strukturen, die sich dann in Nanostab‐Nanostab‐Strukturen umwandeln. In den Hybridobjekten bleiben die magnetischen Eigenschaften von Co erhalten, während die Lumineszenz von CdSe geschwächt, aber nicht komplett gelöscht ist.

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Protein Recognition by an Ensemble of Fluorescent DNA G‐Quadruplexes
Authors: Margulies David , Hamilton Andrew D.
Published: January 2009

Näschen für Proteine: Aus fluoreszierenden DNA‐G‐Quadruplexen wurden vielseitige Signalrezeptoren für Proteine in Lösung aufgebaut. Die Einführung einer Proteinprobe in das Ensemble resultiert in einem einzigartigen, charakteristischen Emissionsmuster (siehe Schema, R = Fluorophor). Die selbstorganisierten Proteindetektionssysteme sind leicht herstellbar, für Hochdurchsatzverfahren geeignet und auf kleine Proteinproben anwendbar.

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Reversible σ‐Boran‐Borylen‐Umwandlung: etwas für jeden Geschmack
Authors: Braunschweig Holger , Dewhurst Rian D.
Published: January 2009

Eine Reaktion mit vielen Facetten: Ausgehend von einem Dihydroboran (rechts im Schema) gelang die Synthese eines Borylenkomplexes (links), die bei Raumtemperatur reversibel unter H2‐Eliminierung verläuft. Die Bedeutung dieser Reaktion für verschiedene Bereiche der Element‐ und metallorganischen Chemie sowie der Wasserstoffspeicherung wird in diesem Highlight angesprochen.

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Nanostructured Cobalt Oxide Clusters in Mesoporous Silica as Efficient Oxygen‐Evolving Catalysts
Authors: Jiao Feng , Frei Heinz
Published: January 2009

Leicht, günstig, effizient: Co3O4‐Nanostrukturen (siehe Bild) in mesoporösem Siliciumoxid sind die ersten nanometergroßen Mehrelektronenkatalysatoren mit einem Übergangsmetalloxid der ersten Periode, die Wasser unter Bildung von Sauerstoff effizient spalten. Die sehr große Oberfläche der Nanostabbündel trägt wesentlich zur hohen Umsatzfrequenz bei.

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Highly Proton‐Conducting Self‐Humidifying Microchannels Generated by Copolymer Brushes on a Scaffold
Authors: Yameen Basit , Kaltbeitzel Anke , Langer Andreas , Müller Frank , Gösele Ulrich , Knoll Wolfgang , Azzaroni Omar
Published: January 2009

Lückenfüllung: Makroporöse Siliciummembranen, die mit sulfonierten Polymerbürsten modifiziert sind, wurden durch porenfüllende Oberflächenpolymerisation synthetisiert (siehe Bild); so wurden protonenleitende Kanäle mit maßgeschneiderten, fein abgestimmten physikochemischen Eigenschaften erhalten. Die Leitfähigkeit der Membranen (ca. 10−2 S cm−1) ist feuchtigkeitsunabhängig und übertrifft die von Nafion.

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A Designer Axially Chiral Amino Sulfonamide as an Efficient Organocatalyst for Direct Asymmetric Mannich Reactions of N‐Boc‐Protected Imines
Authors: Kano Taichi , Yamaguchi Yukako , Maruoka Keiji
Published: January 2009

Die mäßige Nucleophilie des axialchiralen Aminosulfonamids (S)‐1 unterdrückt störende Nebenreaktionen, darunter Aldolreaktionen, bei der asymmetrischen Mannich‐Reaktion zwischen N‐Boc‐geschützten Iminen und Aldehyden. Die Addukte entstehen in guten Ausbeuten und mit ausgezeichneter Stereoselektivität (siehe Schema; Boc=tert‐Butoxycarbonyl, Tf=Trifluormethansulfonyl).

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Air‐Stable {(C5H5)Co} Catalysts for [2+2+2] Cycloadditions
Authors: Geny Anaïs , Agenet Nicolas , Iannazzo Laura , Malacria Max , Aubert Corinne , Gandon Vincent
Published: January 2009

Inter‐ und intramolekulare [2+2+2]‐Cycloadditionen von Alkinen, Nitrilen und/oder Alkenen zu Benzolen, Pyridinen oder 1,3‐Cyclohexadienen werden effizient von Cyclopentadienylcobalt‐Komplexen mit einem Fumarat‐ und einem CO‐Liganden katalysiert (siehe Bild). Anders als [CpCo(CO)2] oder [CpCo(C2H4)2] sind die Komplexe luftstabil, leicht handhabbar, mikrowellengeeignet und müssen zur Aktivierung nicht unbedingt bestrahlt werden.

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