bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of split application of nitrogen fertilizer on yield and yield attributes of transplanted aman rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Kamruzzaman Md , Kayum Md Abdul , Hasan Md Mainul , Hasan Md Mahmudul , Silva Jaime A Teixeira Da
Published: July 2014

Improper doses and splits of nitrogenous fertilizer are two major constraints achieving higher yield of transplanted aman rice in Bangladesh. A field experiment was carried out to study the effect of different levels and split application of nitrogen (N) fertilizer on yield and yield attributes of transplanted aman rice (var. BRRI dhan30). The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with four split levels of N : T1 [? N a t b asal + ? N a t 2 5 d ays a fter transplanting (DAT) + ? N at 50 DAT ], T2 [½ N at 25 DAT + ½ N at 50 DAT], T3 [? N at 15 DAT + ? N at 30 DAT + ? N at 45 DAT], T4 [¼ at N 15 DAT + ½ N at 30 DAT + ¼ N at 45 DAT] in the main plot and four levels of N in the sub-plot: control (0 kg N/ha), N1 (40 kg N/ha), N2 (80 kg N/ha), and N3 (120 kg N/ha). Data collected were total tillers/hill, effective tillers/hill, number of grains/panicle, grain yield (t/ha), biological yield (t/ha) as well as some other morphological characters. Among the N splits, treatment T3 produced highest total tillers/hill (16.45), effective tillers/hill (12.73), panicle length (24.97 cm), grains/panicle (127.92), grain yield (5.53 t/ha), biological yield (12.87 t/ha), and harvest index (42.79%). Among the N levels, treatment N3 produced highest total tillers/hill (16.50), effective tillers/hill (12.69), grains/panicle (130.36), grain yield (5.40 t/ha), and biological yield (12.66 t/ha). Conversely, the treatment combination of N3 and T3 produced the highest value for most of the traits evaluated, namely total tillers/hill (18.03), effective tillers/hill (14.97), grains/panicle (137.48), grain yield (5.77 t/ha), biological yield (13.08 t/ha), and harvest index (44.10%). Hence, the treatment combination of N3 and T3 is suggested to bring higher economic benefit from transplanted aman rice in the study area. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v38i4.18886 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 38(4): 579-587, December 2013
Character association and path co-efficient analysis in Brassica rapa L.
Authors: Khan MH , Bhuiyan SR , Mahmud F
Published: July 2014

The experiment was carried out with 32 genotypes of Brassica rapa including two commercially cultivated varieties as checks to study their mean, range, cv (%) correlation co-efficient, and path co-efficient considering 10 different morphological characters at the experimental farm of SAU, Dhaka during November 2009 to February 2010. Significant variation was observed among all the genotypes for all the characters studied except 1000-seed weight. In general, genotypic correlations were higher than the phenotypic correlations. It indicates that there was an inherent association among them which was adversely influenced by the environment. Days to flowering showed positive significant correlation with days to maturity. Plant height showed positive significant correlation with number of primary branches/plant. Number of primary branches/plant showed positive significant correlation with siliquae/plant. Length of siliquae showed positive significant correlation with seeds/siliquae. Number of secondary branches, number of siliquae/plant, days to maturity, seeds/siliquae, and 1000-seed weight showed positive significant association with yield/plant. Path analysis showed that number of primary branches/plant, number of siliquae/plant, number of secondary branches/plant, and number of seeds/siliquae had direct effect on seed yield/plant. Considering analytical findings of correlation co-efficient, path co-efficient analysis and field performance, the genotypes G-15, G-19, G-1, G-3, G-4, G-10, G-18 G-21, and G-24 would be suitable for future hybridization programme. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v38i4.18945 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 38(4): 599-612, December 2013
Yield performance of oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) on different substrates
Authors: Das D , Kadiruzzaman M , Adhikary SK , Kabir MY , Akhtaruzzaman M
Published: July 2014

An experiment was conducted at Mushroom Lab of Horticulture Centre under Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), Khairtala, Jessore to determine the performance of different substrates on the yield of oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus). Sugarcane bagasse, sawdust, and coconut coir individually and their combinations were used as substrates. The experiment was laid out in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with five replications. Data were taken from 1st and 2nd flush of different growth and yield attributes of mushroom. The maximum number of effective fruiting bodies was obtained from sawdust (40) and the lowest number (31.6) from combination of sawdust and coconut coir (1:1). In the 1st flush, the maximum weight of individual fruiting body was observed in coconut coir and minimum in sawdust. The highest biological (186.06 g) and economic yield (180.64 g) were obtained from coconut coir and the lowest from sugarcane bagasse. The maximum and minimum harvest index was found in 1st flush at coconut coir and combination of sawdust and sugarcane bagasse (1:1), respectively. Most yield attributes were found higher in coconut coir. Economic yield was positively correlated to number of effective fruiting bodies, pileus diameter, and biological yield. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v38i4.18946 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 38(4): 613-623, December 2013
Efficacy of fungicides and organic oils to control powdery mildew disease of jujube (Ziziphus mauritiana Lam.)
Authors: Hoque MZ , Akanda AM , Mian MIH , Bhuiyan MKA
Published: July 2014

Powdery mildew (Oidium erysiphoides f.sp. ziziphi) is the major disease of Indian jujube (Ziziphus mauritiana) in Bangladesh. An experiment was conducted to test the efficacy of six fungicides, two organic oils, and a detergent against the disease. Tested fungicides were Tilt (Propiconazole) @ 0.05%, Folicur (Hexaconazole) @ 0.1%, Bavistin DF (Carbandazim) @ 0.2%, Dithane M-45 (Mancozeb) @ 0.3%, Thiovit 80 WG (Sulpher) @ 0.3%, and Cupravit (Copper) @ 0.3%, the oils were Mustard oil @ 0.5% and Neem oil 0.5%, and the Detergent (Trix) @ 0.5%. The materials were applied as foliar spray for seven times at an interval of 15 days. All of the fungicides and two oils gave significant decrease in severity of powdery mildew and increased fruit yield of Indian jujube irrespective of varieties, locations and over times. Among the treatments, Folicur, Tilt, Thiovit, and Dithane M-45 sprays were found effective than others. The severity index values on two jujube varieties were 3.89-4.50 at Mowna and 4.00-4.53 at Ishurdi in control treatment. The severity indices were reduced to 1.45-1.96 at Mowna and 1.33-2.07 at Ishurdi due to application of Tilt, Folicur, Thiovit, and Dithane M-45, which gave increase in fruit yield over control by 68.88, 63.69, 63.04, and 54.63% in Apple Kul and 83.25, 77.87, 77.39, and 70.36% in BAU Kul, respectively. Most of the treatments were able to reduce number of spotted fruits. The best effective fungicide was found to be Tilt followed by Folicur and Thiovit in reducing disease severity of powdery mildew as well as other fruit diseases like fruit spot and fruit rot and increase fruit yield of Indian jujube. Therefore, Tilt/Folicur may be recommended for jujube growers to control the powdery mildew disease in commercial orchard. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v38i4.19032 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 38(4): 659-672, December 2013
Influence of seed rates and levels of NPK fertilizers on dry matter accumulations and yield performance of foxtail millet (Setaria italica L. Beauv.)
Authors: Hasan MS , Rashid MH , Rahman QA , Al-Mamun MH
Published: July 2014

A study was carried out in the Agronomy Field Laboratory, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, Old Brahmaputra Flood Plains Soil (AEZ-9) during December 2001 to April 2002 to find out the effect of seed rates and NPK levels on dry matter accumulation and grain yield of foxtail millet (Setaria italica L. Beauv.). Four seed rates viz., 8,10,12, and 14 kg/ha and five levels of NPK fertilizers viz., N0P0K0, N10P8K5, N20P16K10, N30P24K15, and N40P32K20 were included in a split plot design with three replications. Dry matter accumulation pattern was determined by harvesting 10 plants randomly at 30, 60, 80, and 102 DAS (days after swing). The yield and yield contributing characters of foxtail millet were influenced by seed rates and NPK levels except tillers per plant and 1000-grain weight significantly. Generally its production rate was 0.86 t/ha when it was grown in char lands in sandy loam soils, the highest grain yield (1.62 t/ha) was produced by 10 kg seeds/ha, which was identical with 12 kg seeds/ha. In case of NPK levels, the treatment was N30P24K10. In case of interaction, the treatment combination 12 kg seeds/ha and N30P24K15 produced the highest grain yield (1.77 t/ha. In case of interaction, the treatment combination 12 kg seeds/ha and N,sub>30P24K15/ha gave the highest grain yield. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v38i4.19661 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 38(4): 689-704, December 2013
A comparative study between fine needle aspiration cytology findings and histopathological report of major salivary gland neoplasm in a tertiary hospital of Bangladesh
Authors: Huq AHMZ , Aktaruzzaman M , Habib MA , Islam MS , Amin ASA
Published: July 2014

Salivary gland tumours are relatively uncommon and most of the tumours arise from parotid gland. Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is advised preoperatively as diagnostic tool but sometimes found to shown both false positive and false negative results. This study was aimed to find out distribution of neoplasm of major salivary glands and also to explore the sensitivity and specificity of FNAC. The present cross sectional study was done in the Dept. of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, BSMMU from January 2007 to December 2008. A total number of 60 gender-matched patients with major salivary neoplasm, confirmed by FNAC, were recruited in the study. Operated salivary gland specimens were sent for histopathological examination, histopathological findings were compared. Overall male to female ratio was 1:1. Out of 60 cases, 47 (78.3%) patients had parotid and 13 (21.7%) patients submandibular gland neoplasm. Male to female ratio for parotid tumour was1:1.1 and for submandibular 1.6:1. Mean age of the patients was 44.5 with range of 14-85 years. Of the total 60 cases 47 (78.3%) were benign and 13 (21.7%) malignant. Out of 47 parotid tumour 85.1% were benign and 14.9% malignant. Among the parotid tumour 97% were superficial lobe and 3.0% deep lobe. In case of submandibular gland 53.84% were benign and 46.15% tumour malignant. According to the sides of involvement, 25 (53.2%) cases of parotid neoplasm tumour were in the left and 22(46.8%) the right. In submandibular gland the distribution was 7 (53.8%) and 6 (46.16%) respectively. Statistically incidence of parotid tumour was significantly higher than submandibular tumour (p<0.05). Out of 60 cases in 56 (93.3%) preoperative FNAC and postoperative histopathological findings were same. There was 1.7% false positive and 5% were false negative results. Sensitivity, specificity of FNAC were 80% and 97.8% respectively. Positive predictive value was 92.3% and negative predictive 93.6% for FNAC.FNAC though cheap and safe but its diagnostic accuracy was 93.3%.Histopathologial examination remained to be of value for diagnostic confirmation of major salivary gland neoplasm. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmrcb.v39i2.19645 Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2013; 39: 69-73
Assessing glomerular filtration rate in healthy adult potential kidney donors in Bangladesh: A comparison of various prediction equations with measured glomerular filtration rate by diethylentriamine pentaacetic acid renogram
Authors: Jahan F , Chowdhury MNU , Mahbub T , Arafat SM , Jahan S , Hossain M , Khan MF
Published: July 2014

To ensure that potential kidney donors in Bangladesh have no renal impairment, it is extremely important to have accurate methods for evaluating the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). We evaluated the performance of serum creatinine based GFR in healthy adult potential kidney donors in Bangladesh to compare GFR determined by DTPA with that determined by various prediction equations. In this study GFR in 61 healthy adult potential kidney donors were measured with 99mTc-diethylenetriamine penta-acetic acid (DTPA) renogram. We also estimated GFR using a four variable equation modification of diet in renal disease (MDRD), Cockcroft-Gault creatinine clearance (CG CrCl), Cockcroft-Gault glomerular filtration rate (CG-GFR). The mean age of study population was 34.31±9.46 years and out of them 65.6% was male. In this study mean mGFR was 85.4±14.8. Correlation of estimated GFR calculated by CG-CrCl, CG-GFR and MDRD were done with measured GFR DTPA using quartile. Kappa values were also estimated which was found to be 0.104 for (p=0.151), 0.336 for (p=0.001) and 0.125 for (p=0.091) respectively. This indicates there is no association between estimated GFR calculated by CG-CrCl, CG-GFR, MDRD with measured GFR DTPA. These results show poor performance of these equations in evaluation of renal function among healthy population and also raise question regarding validity of these equations for assessment of renal function in chronic kidney disease in our population. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmrcb.v39i2.19646 Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2013; 39: 74-79
Role of transvaginal sonography in the detection of endometrial carcinoma
Authors: Showkat MS , Nabi S , Khondker L , Bhowmik B , Tushar SN , Jahan MU
Published: July 2014

Transvagival sonography is superior to transabdominal sonography in most cases of pelvic pathology. Objective of this study is to evaluate the clinical usefulness of transvaginal ultrasonography (TVS) in pre, peri and post menopausal women suspected to have endometrial carcinoma. This cross sectional study was done with 40 patients who are clinically suspected having thickened endometrium. The study was carried out January 2007 to November 2008 for a period of two years. The patients having endometrial carcinoma diagnosed by TVS was correlated with histopathological diagnosis following collection of the report from the respective cases. Of total 40 cases, 2(5.0%) cases were endometrial carcinoma and 38(95.0%) were negative for endometrial carcinoma respectively in TVS findings. On the other hand 3(7.5%) cases were endometrial carcinoma and 37 (92.5%) cases were negative for endometrial carcinoma in histopathological findings. The validity of TVS in diagnosis of endometrial carcinoma were studied by calculating sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value and negative predictive value, which were 67 percent, 100 percent, 98 percent, 100 percent and 97 percent respectively. As the TVS findings of the present study correlated well with the histopathology findings and the validity test values were higher than observed by others, it can be concluded that TVS is sensitive and accurate modality in the evaluation of endometrial carcinoma. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmrcb.v39i2.19647 Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2013; 39: 80-85
Detection and estimation of human papillomavirus viral load in patients with cervical lesions
Authors: Rahman T , Tabassum S , Jahan M , Nessa A , Ashrafunnessa Dr
Published: July 2014

Human papillomavirus (HPV) high risk genotype infection and HPV viral load influences the development of invasive cervical cancer and cervical intra-epithelial neoplasia (CIN). HPV DNA testing for screening of cervical cancers may play a potential role in its early detection and management. The present study detected HPV DNA and estimated HPV viral load in different types of cervical lesions among Bangladeshi women. Using the Hybrid Capture 2 (HC2) assay, HPV DNA was tested among 68 women between 25-70 years of age. A total of 13 (19.1%) cases were positive for HPV DNA. The highest viral load (501 x 10³ copies/ml) was detected in a patient with invasive carcinoma, while the lowest viral load (105 x 10³ copies/ml) was detected from a case of chronic cervicitis. The mean viral load in CIN I was 119.25 x 10³±12.5 x 10³ copies/ml (range: 110 x 10³ - 137 x 10³) and 208.50 x 10³ ± 0.59 x 10³ copies/ml (range: 139 x 10³-305 x 10³) in CIN II / III. Interestingly, HPV DNA was detected from a patient with normal cytological findings. Our study observed a moderate presence of high-risk HPV genotypes among women with cervical lesions. The HPV viral load varied with the age of the patients and stage of cervical lesions. The HC2 assay is a promising tool for diagnosing high-risk HPV infection especially before cytology tests show any abnormality. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmrcb.v39i2.19648 Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2013; 39: 86-90
Correlation of ultrasonographically determined renal cortical thickness and renal length with estimated glomerular filtration rate in chronic kidney disease patients
Authors: Mustafiz M , Rahman MM , Islam MS , Mohiuddin AS
Published: July 2014

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmrcb.v39i2.19649Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2013; 39: 91-92
Historical Patterns of Natural Forest Management in Costa Rica: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly
Authors: Arroyo-Mora J. , Svob Sienna , Kalacska Margaret , Chazdon Robin
Published: July 2014

We present an in-depth analysis of natural forest management practices in Costa Rica based on a new historical forestry GIS database encompassing five conservation regions in the country where selective logging has been prevalent for the last 18 years. Natural forest management refers to the selective logging practices for the production of timber in natural forest ecosystems. The study considers natural forest management plans developed following a standardized format, based on Forestry Law 7575, established in 1996. Our results show a positive aspect of forest management where a large percentage of the managed forest is still standing, contrary to other tropical countries where selective logging promotes land use change. The negative finding is that managed forest areas occur in the last remaining forest fragments outside of protected areas, which challenges the continuity of selective logging in the near and mid future due to the potential impoverishment of the isolated forest stands. The most negative aspect is the recent establishment, by law, of a very short return logging cycle (10–15 years—minimum cutting cycle) as it contradicts ecological studies showing that tropical forests require over 60 years for the forest structure and composition to return to a state similar to pre-logging states. Our results should inform decision makers and managers in conservation areas to review current policies and establish new benchmarks for sustainable forest management in the country.
Effect of Technological Treatments on Human-Like Leptin Level in Bovine Milk for Human Consumption
Authors: Magistrelli Damiano , Rosi Fabia
Published: July 2014

In this experiment, raw milk and commercially available full-cream UHT milk, semi-skimmed UHT milk, skimmed UHT milk, full-cream pasteurized milk, semi-skimmed pasteurized milk and infant formulas for babies between 6 and 12 months of age were analyzed by RIA, with a method using an antibody directed against human leptin and human leptin as reference standard. Raw milk and full-cream UHT milk did not differ for human-like leptin. Leptin content of full-cream pasteurized milk was not different to that of full-cream UHT milk, but it was 14% lower (p < 0.05) than that observed in raw milk. Human-like leptin level of semi-skimmed UHT milk was not different to that of semi-skimmed pasteurized milk, but it was 30% lower (p < 0.0001) than those of full-cream UHT and full-cream pasteurized milks. In skimmed UHT milk, leptin was 40% lower (p < 0.0001) than in full-cream UHT milk. Leptin was correlated (p < 0.001) with lipid content. Leptin level of infant formulas was not different to that of skimmed milks. Results suggest that the heat treatment (pasteurization or UHT) is not a modifier of human-like leptin content of edible commercial bovine milks, whereas the skimming process significantly reduces milk leptin level.
Leptospira spp. in Rodents and Shrews in Germany
Authors: Mayer-Scholl Anne , Hammerl Jens , Schmidt Sabrina , Ulrich Rainer , Pfeffer Martin , Woll Dietlinde , Scholz Holger , Thomas Astrid , Nöckler Karsten
Published: July 2014

Leptospirosis is an acute, febrile disease occurring in humans and animals worldwide. Leptospira spp. are usually transmitted through direct or indirect contact with the urine of infected reservoir animals. Among wildlife species, rodents act as the most important reservoir for both human and animal infection. To gain a better understanding of the occurrence and distribution of pathogenic leptospires in rodent and shrew populations in Germany, kidney specimens of 2973 animals from 11 of the 16 federal states were examined by PCR. Rodent species captured included five murine species (family Muridae), six vole species (family Cricetidae) and six shrew species (family Soricidae). The most abundantly trapped animals were representatives of the rodent species Apodemus flavicollis, Clethrionomys glareolus and Microtus agrestis. Leptospiral DNA was amplified in 10% of all animals originating from eight of the 11 federal states. The highest carrier rate was found in Microtus spp. (13%), followed by Apodemus spp. (11%) and Clethrionomys spp. (6%). The most common Leptospira genomospecies determined by duplex PCR was L. kirschneri, followed by L. interrogans and L. borgpetersenii; all identified by single locus sequence typing (SLST). Representatives of the shrew species were also carriers of Leptospira spp. In 20% of Crocidura spp. and 6% of the Sorex spp. leptospiral DNA was detected. Here, only the pathogenic genomospecies L. kirschneri was identified.
Assessing Health Risk due to Exposure to Arsenic in Drinking Water in Hanam Province, Vietnam
Authors: Huy Tung , Tuyet-Hanh Tran , Johnston Richard , Nguyen-Viet Hung
Published: July 2014

We assessed health risks related to Arsenic (As) in contaminated drinking water in Hanam, applying the Australian Environmental Health Risk Assessment Framework, which promotes stakeholder involvement in risk assessments. As concentrations in 300 tube-well water samples, before and after filtration, were analyzed and the water consumption levels in 150 households were estimated. Skin cancer risk was characterized using Cancer Slope Factor index and lifetime average daily dose with a probabilistic approach. The results showed that arsenic concentrations in tube-well water ranged from 8–579 ppb (mean 301 ppb) before filtration and current sand filters used by the households did not meet the standard for As removal. Arsenic daily consumption of 40% of the adults exceeded the level of TDI (Tolerable Daily Intake) at 1 µg/kg/day. The average skin cancer risk in adults due to consuming filtered tube-well water for drinking purpose were 25.3 × 10−5 (using only well water) and 7.6 × 10−5 (using both well and rain water). The skin cancer risk would be 11.5 times higher if the water was not filtered. Improvement of filtration measures or the replacement of the current drinking water sources to minimize the health risks to the local population is urgently needed.
Review of Family Business Definitions: Cluster Approach and Implications of Heterogeneous Application for Family Business Research
Authors: Harms Henrik
Published: July 2014

This review article displays several attempts to define family businesses as well as a systematization approach to get new insights about the relationship between family business definitions and their application under different conditions such as legal framework, culture or regional understanding of family. Potential explanations for the ambiguity of what is meant by family firms are revealed by reviewing 267 journal articles. A consensus about the object of investigation would result in a deeper understanding of family firms’ uniqueness, might lead to more reliable comparative studies as well as interdisciplinary work (e.g., finance and family firms) and enables a quicker consolidation of family business research, especially in contrast to research on small and medium-sized enterprises and entrepreneurship. Therefore, the present review contributes to the development of family business research by providing an initial attempt to comprehensively systematized existing family firm definitions which could be used by researchers in family business research.
Calcium and Zinc Containing Bactericidal Glass Coatings for Biomedical Metallic Substrates
Authors: Esteban-Tejeda Leticia , Díaz Luis , Prado Catuxa , Cabal Belén , Torrecillas Ramón , Moya José
Published: July 2014

The present work presents new bactericidal coatings, based on two families of non-toxic, antimicrobial glasses belonging to B2O3–SiO2–Na2O–ZnO and SiO2–Na2O–Al2O3–CaO–B2O3 systems. Free of cracking, single layer direct coatings on different biomedical metallic substrates (titanium alloy, Nb, Ta, and stainless steel) have been developed. Thermal expansion mismatch was adjusted by changing glass composition of the glass type, as well as the firing atmosphere (air or Ar) according to the biomedical metallic substrates. Formation of bubbles in some of the glassy coatings has been rationalized considering the reactions that take place at the different metal/coating interfaces. All the obtained coatings were proven to be strongly antibacterial versus Escherichia coli (>4 log).
BRCA1 Exon 11, a CERES (Composite Regulatory Element of Splicing) Element Involved in Splice Regulation
Authors: Tammaro Claudia , Raponi Michela , Wilson David , Baralle Diana
Published: July 2014

Unclassified variants (UV) of BRCA1 can affect normal pre-mRNA splicing. Here, we investigate the UV c.693G>A, a “silent” change in BRCA1 exon 11, which we have found induces aberrant splicing in patient carriers and in vitro. Using a minigene assay, we show that the UV c.693G>A has a strong effect on the splicing isoform ratio of BRCA1. Systematic site-directed mutagenesis of the area surrounding the nucleotide position c.693G>A induced variable changes in the level of exon 11 inclusion/exclusion in the mRNA, pointing to the presence of a complex regulatory element with overlapping enhancer and silencer functions. Accordingly, protein binding analysis in the region detected several splicing regulatory factors involved, including SRSF1, SRSF6 and SRSF9, suggesting that this sequence represents a composite regulatory element of splicing (CERES).
Antioxidant Capacities and Total Phenolic Contents Enhancement with Acute Gamma Irradiation in Curcuma alismatifolia (Zingiberaceae) Leaves
Authors: Taheri Sima , Abdullah Thohirah , Karimi Ehsan , Oskoueian Ehsan , Ebrahimi Mahdi
Published: July 2014

The present study was conducted in order to assess the effect of various doses of acute gamma irradiation (0, 10, 15, and 20 Gy) on the improvement of bioactive compounds and their antioxidant properties of Curcuma alismatifolia var. Sweet pink. The high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography (GC) analysis uncovered that various types of phenolic, flavonoid compounds, and fatty acids gradually altered in response to radiation doses. On the other hand, antioxidant activities determined by 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH), ferric reduction, antioxidant power (FRAP), and 2,2-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging assay showed a higher irradiation level significantly increased the antioxidant properties. This study revealed an efficient effect of varying levels of gamma radiation, based on the pharmaceutical demand to enhance the accumulation and distribution of bioactive compounds such as phenolic and flavonoid compounds, fatty acids, as well as their antioxidant activities in the leaves of C. alismatifolia var. Sweet pink.
Crosslinking Liposomes/Cells Using Cholesteryl Group-Modified Tilapia Gelatin
Authors: Taguchi Tetsushi , Endo Yoshiaki
Published: July 2014

Cholesteryl group-modified tilapia gelatins (Chol-T-Gltns) with various Chol contents from 3 to 69 mol % per amino group of Gltn were prepared for the assembly of liposomes and cells. Liposomes were physically crosslinked by anchoring Chol groups of Chol-T-Gltns into lipid membranes. The resulting liposome gels were enzymatically degraded by addition of collagenase. Liposome gels prepared using Chol-T-Gltn with high Chol content (69Chol-T-Gltn) showed slower enzymatic degradation when compared with gels prepared using Chol-T-Gltn with low Chol content (3Chol-T-Gltn). The hepatocyte cell line HepG2 showed good assembly properties and no cytotoxic effects after addition of 69Chol-T-Gltns. In addition, the number of HepG2 cells increased with concentration of 69Chol-T-Gltns. Therefore, Chol-T-Gltn, particularly, 69Chol-T-Gltn, can be used as an assembling material for liposomes and various cell types. The resulting organization can be applied to various biomedical fields, such as drug delivery systems, tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
Chromosomal Mosaicism in Human Feto-Placental Development: Implications for Prenatal Diagnosis
Authors: Grati Francesca
Published: July 2014

Chromosomal mosaicism is one of the primary interpretative issues in prenatal diagnosis. In this review, the mechanisms underlying feto-placental chromosomal mosaicism are presented. Based on the substantial retrospective diagnostic experience with chorionic villi samples (CVS) of a prenatal diagnosis laboratory the following items are discussed: (i) The frequency of the different types of mosaicism (confined placental, CPM, and true fetal mosaicisms, TFM); (ii) The risk of fetal confirmation after the detection of a mosaic in CVS stratified by chromosome abnormality and placental tissue involvement; (iii) The frequency of uniparental disomy for imprinted chromosomes associated with CPM; (iv) The incidence of false-positive and false-negative results in CVS samples analyzed by only (semi-)direct preparation or long term culture; and (v) The implications of the presence of a feto-placental mosaicism for microarray analysis of CVS and non-invasive prenatal screening (NIPS).
Nanomaterials-Based Sensing Strategies for Electrochemical Detection of MicroRNAs
Authors: Xia Ning , Zhang Liping
Published: July 2014

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play important functions in post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. They have been regarded as reliable molecular biomarkers for many diseases including cancer. However, the content of miRNAs in cells can be low down to a few molecules per cell. Thus, highly sensitive analytical methods for miRNAs detection are desired. Recently, electrochemical biosensors have held great promise as devices suitable for point-of-care diagnostics and multiplexed platforms for fast, simple and low-cost nucleic acid analysis. Signal amplification by nanomaterials is one of the most popular strategies for developing ultrasensitive assay methods. This review surveys the latest achievements in the use of nanomaterials to detect miRNAs with a focus on electrochemical techniques.
A Perspective on the Prowaste Concept: Efficient Utilization of Plastic Waste through Product Design and Process Innovation
Authors: Greco Antonio , Frigione Mariaenrica , Maffezzoli Alfonso , Marseglia Alessandro , Passaro Alessandra
Published: July 2014

This work is aimed to present an innovative technology for the reinforcement of beams for urban furniture, produced by in-mold extrusion of plastics from solid urban waste. This material, which is usually referred to as “recycled plastic lumber”, is characterized by very poor mechanical properties, which results in high deflections under flexural loads, particularly under creep conditions. The Prowaste project, founded by the EACI (European Agency for Competitiveness and Innovation) in the framework of the Eco-Innovation measure, was finalized to develop an innovative technology for selective reinforcement of recycled plastic lumber. Selective reinforcement was carried out by the addition of pultruded glass rods in specific positions with respect to the cross section of the beam, which allowed optimizing the reinforcing efficiency. The reinforcement of the plastic lumber beams with pultruded rods was tested at industrial scale plant, at Solteco SL (Alfaro, Spain). The beams obtained, characterized by low cost and weight, were commercialized by the Spanish company. The present paper presents the most relevant results of the Prowaste project. Initially, an evaluation of the different materials candidates for the reinforcement of recycled plastic lumber is presented. Plastic lumber beams produced in the industrial plant were characterized in terms of flexural properties. The results obtained are interpreted by means of beam theory, which allows for extrapolation of the characteristic features of beams produced by different reinforcing elements. Finally, a theoretical comparison with other approaches which can be used for the reinforcement of plastic lumber is presented, highlighting that, among others, the Prowaste concept maximizes the stiffening efficiency, allowing to significantly reduce the weight of the components.
Effects of Interfaces on the Structure and Novel Physical Properties in Epitaxial Multiferroic BiFeO3 Ultrathin Films
Authors: Huang Chuanwei , Chen Lang
Published: July 2014

In functional oxide films, different electrical/mechanical boundaries near film surfaces induce rich phase diagrams and exotic phenomena. In this paper, we review some key points which underpin structure, phase transition and related properties in BiFeO3 ultrathin films. Compared with the bulk counterparts, we survey the recent results of epitaxial BiFeO3 ultrathin films to illustrate how the atomic structure and phase are markedly influenced by the interface between the film and the substrate, and to emphasize the roles of misfit strain and depolarization field on determining the domain patterns, phase transformation and associated physical properties of BiFeO3 ultrathin films, such as polarization, piezoelectricity, and magnetism. One of the obvious consequences of the misfit strain on BiFeO3 ultrathin films is the emergence of a sequence of phase transition from tetragonal to mixed tetragonal & rhombohedral, the rhombohedral, mixed rhombohedral & orthorhombic, and finally orthorhombic phases. Other striking features of this system are the stable domain patterns and the crossover of 71° and 109° domains with different electrical boundary conditions on the film surface, which can be controlled and manipulated through the depolarization field. The external field-sensitive enhancements of properties for BiFeO3 ultrathin films, including the polarization, magnetism and morphotropic phase boundary-relevant piezoelectric response, offer us deeper insights into the investigations of the emergent properties and phenomena of epitaxial ultrathin films under various mechanical/electrical constraints. Finally, we briefly summarize the recent progress and list open questions for future study on BiFeO3 ultrathin films.
Recognition of LPS by TLR4: Potential for Anti-Inflammatory Therapies
Authors: Nijland Reindert , Hofland Tom , Van Strijp Jos
Published: July 2014

LPS molecules of marine bacteria show structures distinct from terrestrial bacteria, due to the different environment that marine bacteria live in. Because of these different structures, lipid A molecules from marine bacteria are most often poor stimulators of the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) pathway. Due to their low stimulatory potential, these lipid A molecules are suggested to be applicable as antagonists of TLR4 signaling in sepsis patients, where this immune response is amplified and unregulated. Antagonizing lipid A molecules might be used for future therapies against sepsis, therapies that currently do not exist. In this review, we will discuss these differences in lipid A structures and their recognition by the immune system. The modifications present in marine lipid A structures are described, and their potential as LPS antagonists will be discussed. Finally, since clinical trials built on antagonizing lipid A molecules have proven unsuccessful, we propose to also focus on different aspects of the TLR4 signaling pathway when searching for new potential drugs. Furthermore, we put forward the notion that bacteria probably already produce inhibitors of TLR4 signaling, making these bacterial products interesting molecules to investigate for future sepsis therapies.
Linking Environmental Magnetism to Geochemical Studies and Management of Trace Metals. Examples from Fluvial, Estuarine and Marine Systems
Authors: Scoullos Michael , Botsou Fotini , Zeri Christina
Published: July 2014

Among the diverse research fields and wide range of studies encompassed by environmental magnetism, the present work elaborates on critical aspects of the geochemistry of trace metals that emerged through years of original research in a variety of environmental compartments. This review aims at sharing the insights gained on (a) tracing metal pollution sources; and (b) identifying processes and transport pathways from sources to depositional environments. Case studies on the Elefsis Gulf (Greece) and the Gulf of Lions (France) demonstrate the potential of combined magnetic measurements and chemical analysis to trace pollution signals resulting from land-based sources and atmospheric deposition. Case studies on estuarine environments, namely the Louros, Acheloos, and Asopos Estuaries (Greece), address modes of trace metal behavior under the influence of different hydrological regimes and elucidate in situ processes within the transitional estuarine zone, that define their ultimate fate. As sources, transport pathways, and processes of trace metals are fundamental in environmental management assessments, the involvement of magnetic measurements in the policy cycle could facilitate the development and implementation of appropriate regulatory measures for the integrated management of river basins, coastal, and marine areas.
Strategy for Making a Superior Quenchbody to Proteins: Effect of the Fluorophore Position
Authors: Jeong Hee-Jin , Ueda Hiroshi
Published: July 2014

Antibody-based sensors have made outstanding contributions to the fields of molecular biology and biotechnology. Our group recently developed a novel powerful fluorescent immunosensor strategy named Quenchbody (Q-body), which has been applied to the detection of a range of antigens in a rapid, simple, and sensitive manner. However, there were some Q-bodies whose fluorescence response was limited, especially for detecting protein antigens. With the aim of improving this issue, here we made twelve types of Q-bodies incorporated with different number and position of TAMRA fluorophore in the single chain Fv of HyHEL-10, an anti-hen egg lysozyme antibody, as a model. By measuring the fluorescence intensity and its antigen dependency, it was revealed that VL-VH type Q-bodies labeled at a non-CDR loop region of the VL shows the highest fluorescence response. This position locates close to the quenching Trp35 in VL, while it is far from Trp residues in the bound antigen. This result clearly suggests the importance of dye position to maximize the fluorescence quenching and antigen-dependent de-quenching. The discovery may open a way to make many other Q-bodies with superior response.
Safety or Salamanders? Natural Hazards and Environmental Conservation in Comprehensive Planning
Authors: Junker Eivind
Published: July 2014

The stated purpose of Norwegian land use planning is to promote sustainable development. Environmental considerations are central in the planning process, but have to compete with many other goals and interests. In recent years, complexity, population density and similar factors have made the society more vulnerable. Several major floods, landslides and other natural incidents have raised public awareness about the safety aspect of planning. At the same time, better knowledge about natural systems, including the effects of climate change, have increased the level of uncertainty. In this article, I consider the relation between environmental and safety considerations in planning from a legal perspective. While the examples and theoretical framework are from the Norwegian legal system, the overall analysis is general and, thus, relevant also outside the national jurisdiction. Rather than being opposite and directly competing goals, I argue that safety and conservation can be promoted by the same measures, often with mutual benefits. Thus, the current focus on societal safety can actually enhance the environmental aspect of sustainable development.
Molecular Surface of JZTX-V (β-Theraphotoxin-Cj2a) Interacting with Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel Subtype NaV1.4
Authors: Luo Ji , Zhang Yiya , Gong Mengting , Lu Shanshan , Ma Yifeng , Zeng Xiongzhi , Liang Songping
Published: July 2014

Voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs; NaV1.1–NaV1.9) have been proven to be critical in controlling the function of excitable cells, and human genetic evidence shows that aberrant function of these channels causes channelopathies, including epilepsy, arrhythmia, paralytic myotonia, and pain. The effects of peptide toxins, especially those isolated from spider venom, have shed light on the structure–function relationship of these channels. However, most of these toxins have not been analyzed in detail. In particular, the bioactive faces of these toxins have not been determined. Jingzhaotoxin (JZTX)-V (also known as β-theraphotoxin-Cj2a) is a 29-amino acid peptide toxin isolated from the venom of the spider Chilobrachys jingzhao. JZTX-V adopts an inhibitory cysteine knot (ICK) motif and has an inhibitory effect on voltage-gated sodium and potassium channels. Previous experiments have shown that JZTX-V has an inhibitory effect on TTX-S and TTX-R sodium currents on rat DRG cells with IC50 values of 27.6 and 30.2 nM, respectively, and is able to shift the activation and inactivation curves to the depolarizing and the hyperpolarizing direction, respectively. Here, we show that JZTX-V has a much stronger inhibitory effect on NaV1.4, the isoform of voltage-gated sodium channels predominantly expressed in skeletal muscle cells, with an IC50 value of 5.12 nM, compared with IC50 values of 61.7–2700 nM for other heterologously expressed NaV1 subtypes. Furthermore, we investigated the bioactive surface of JZTX-V by alanine-scanning the effect of toxin on NaV1.4 and demonstrate that the bioactive face of JZTX-V is composed of three hydrophobic (W5, M6, and W7) and two cationic (R20 and K22) residues. Our results establish that, consistent with previous assumptions, JZTX-V is a Janus-faced toxin which may be a useful tool for the further investigation of the structure and function of sodium channels.
Seasonal Accumulation and Depletion of Local Sediment Stores of Four Headwater Catchments
Authors: Martin Sarah , Conklin Martha , Bales Roger
Published: July 2014

Seasonal turbidity patterns and event-level hysteresis analysis of turbidity verses discharge in four 1 km2 headwater catchments in California’s Sierra Nevada indicate localized in-channel sediment sources and seasonal accumulation-depletion patterns of stream sediments. Turbidity signals were analyzed for three years in order to look at the relationships between seasonal turbidity trends, event turbidity patterns, and precipitation type to stream sediment production and transport. Seasonal patterns showed more turbidity events associated with fall and early to mid- winter events than with peak snow-melt. No significant turbidity patterns emerged for periods of snow melt vs. rain. Single event hysteresis loops showed clockwise patterns were dominant suggesting local sediment sources. In successive discharge events, the largest turbidity spike was often associated with the first but not necessarily the largest discharge event-indicating seasonal depletion of local sediment stores. In multi-peaked discharge events, hysteresis loops shifted from clockwise to linear or random patterns suggesting that localized sediment stores are being used up and sufficient flow energy must be reached to start entraining the more consolidated bank/bed sediment or that dominant sediment sources may be shifting to less localized areas such as hill slopes. A conceptual model with phases of accumulation and transport is proposed.
The Effects of Surface Debris Diversion Devices on River Hydrodynamic Conditions and Implications for In-Stream Hydrokinetic Development
Authors: Toniolo Horacio
Published: July 2014

Floating objects designed to divert woody debris—known as debris diversion devices—can protect hydrokinetic turbines deployed in rivers; they also change the hydrodynamic conditions of a river, at least locally. Modifications associated with velocity adjustments in both magnitude and direction would be expected. Thus, one could assume that extra macro-turbulent levels would be found immediately behind a device and downstream of that location. This article presents a set of cross-sectional and longitudinal velocity measurements carried out to quantify these effects. Results show important changes in the velocity components. In addition, significant changes in the vorticity field, calculated along cross-sectional profiles, demonstrate the role of a submerged chain used to maintain the debris diversion device in place. More importantly, findings suggest that hydrokinetic turbines should not be installed in a river’s central area behind a debris diversion device, due to the additional turbulence created by the submerged chain.
Les contraintes écologiques en forêt tropicale humide: l'exemple des Pygmées Aka de la Lobaye (Centrafrique)
Authors: Bahuchet Serge
Published: July 2014

On the basis of ethnobiological field work among the Aka Pygmies of the Lobaye rain forest in Central Africa, the author considers the problem of ecological constraints in the case of the societies living in the tropical rain forest.
La triple symbiose caprifiguier-blastophage-figuier et le problème des origines du Ficus carica L
Authors: Rivals Pierre
Published: July 2014

In the light of a discussion of the fig tree (Ficus carica) fertilization process, the author considers the question of the origin of this fruit tree.
Évolution agricole d'une vallée de la côte Sous-le-Vent de la Guadeloupe
Authors: Bougerol Christiane
Published: July 2014

A description of the agriculture history of a valley of Guadeloupe island with a survey of plants locally used as indicators of soils quality.
Sur l'agriculture timoraise et ses possibilités de développement, A propos de Man and Environment in eastern Timor de Joachim K. Metzner
Authors: Friedberg Claudine
Published: July 2014

A discussion of the problems of Timorese agriculture and its possibilities of development.
L'arbre et le nomade
Authors: Bernus Edmond
Published: July 2014

Through a study of the perception and use of trees by the nomadic Touaregs of Africa, it is shown that, living with the trees and from the trees, they have use them in such a way that they have maintained them within the frame of a well balanced pastoral ecosystem.
Utilisations pharmaceutiques du cacao
Authors: Lemordant Denis
Published: July 2014

After having defined the drug, specified its chemical components, the author deals with cacao uses in pharmacy and para-pharmacy, and indicates its inclusion in the various pharmacopoeias since its discovery by the old world. Cacao butter and theobromine provided by the crop to pharmaceutical industry are very different products in their nature and uses. They are dealt with separately as for their preparation, physico-chemical properties, identification, essays, physiological effects, therapeutical indications and posology, with an account of some commercial specialized commodities. The article ends with a general list of references.