bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance-Based Seismic Vulnerability Evaluation of Masonry Buildings Using Applied Element Method in a Nonlinear Dynamic-Based Analytical Procedure
Authors: Karbassi Amin , Nollet Marie-José
Published: June 2013

A thorough four-step performance-based seismic evaluation for a six-story unreinforced masonry building is conducted. Incremental dynamic analysis is carried out using the applied element method to take advantage of its ability to simulate progressive collapse of the masonry structure including out-of-plane failure of the walls. The distribution of the structural responses and inters-tory drifts from the incremental dynamic analysis curves are used to develop both spectral-based (Sa) and displacement-based (interstory drift) fragility curves at three structural performance levels. The curves resulting from three-dimensional (3-D) analyses using unidirectional ground motions are combined using the weakest link theory to propose combined fragility curves. Finally, the mean annual frequencies of exceeding the three performance levels are calculated using the spectral acceleration values at four probability levels 2%, 5%, 10%, and 40% in 50 years. The method is shown to be useful for seismic vulnerability evaluations in regions where little observed damage data exists.
Oesophageal and sternohyal muscle fibres are novel Pax3-dependent migratory somite derivatives essential for ingestion
Authors: Minchin James E. N. , Williams Victoria C. , Hinits Yaniv , Low SiewHui , Tandon Panna , Fan Chen-Ming , Rawls John F. , Hughes Simon M.
Published: June 2013

Striated muscles that enable mouth opening and swallowing during feeding are essential for efficient energy acquisition, and are likely to have played a fundamental role in the success of early jawed vertebrates. The developmental origins and genetic requirements of these muscles are uncertain. Here, we determine by indelible lineage tracing in mouse that fibres of sternohyoid muscle (SHM), which is essential for mouth opening during feeding, and oesophageal striated muscle (OSM), which is crucial for voluntary swallowing, arise from Pax3-expressing somite cells. In vivo Kaede lineage tracing in zebrafish reveals the migratory route of cells from the anteriormost somites to OSM and SHM destinations. Expression of pax3b, a zebrafish duplicate of Pax3, is restricted to the hypaxial region of anterior somites that generate migratory muscle precursors (MMPs), suggesting that Pax3b plays a role in generating OSM and SHM. Indeed, loss of pax3b function led to defective MMP migration and OSM formation, disorganised SHM differentiation, and inefficient ingestion and swallowing of microspheres. Together, our data demonstrate Pax3-expressing somite cells as a source of OSM and SHM fibres, and highlight a conserved role of Pax3 genes in the genesis of these feeding muscles of vertebrates.
Demonstration of natriuretic activity in urine of neurosurgical patients with renal salt wasting
Authors: Youmans Steven J , Fein Miriam R , Wirkowski Elizabeth , Maesaka John K
Published: June 2013

We have utilized the persistent elevation of fractional excretion (FE) of urate, > 10%, to differentiate cerebral/renal salt wasting (RSW) from the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH), in which a normalization of FEurate occurs after correction of hyponatremia.  Previous studies suggest as well  that an elevated FEurate with normonatremia, without pre-existing hyponatremia, is also consistent with RSW, including studies demonstrating induction of RSW in rats infused with plasma from normonatremic neurosurgical and Alzheimer’s disease patients.  The present studies were designed to test whether precipitates from the urine of normonatremic neurosurgical patients, with either normal or elevated FEurate, and patients with SIADH, display natriuretic activity.  

Methods: Ammonium sulfate precipitates from the urine of 6 RSW and 5 non-RSW Control patients were dialyzed (10 kDa cutoff) to remove the ammonium sulfate, lyophilized, and the reconstituted precipitate was tested for its effect on transcellular transport of 22Na across LLC-PK1 cells grown to confluency in transwells.

Results: Precipitates from 5 of the 6 patients with elevated FEurate and normonatremia significantly inhibited the in vitro transcellular transport of 22Na above a concentration of 3 μg protein/ml, by 10-25%, versus to vehicle alone, and by 15-40% at concentrations of 5-20 μg/ml as compared to precipitates from 4 of the 5 non-RSW patients with either normal FEurate and normonatremia (2 patients) or with SIADH (2 patients).

Conclusion: These studies provide further evidence that an elevated FEurate with normonatremia is highly consistent with RSW.  Evidence in the urine of natriuretic activity suggests significant renal excretion of the natriuretic factor. The potentially large source of the natriuretic factor that this could afford, coupled with small analytical sample sizes required by the in-vitro bioassay used here, should facilitate future experimental analysis and allow the natriuretic factor to be investigated as a potential biomarker for RSW.
Multiregional Dynamic Vaccine Allocation During an Influenza Epidemic
Authors: Teytelman Anna , Larson Richard C.
Published: June 2013

We consider a sequential decision problem in national health policy: the weekly deployments of limited influenza vaccine doses, as they become available, to the various geographical regions of the United States during a pandemic event. As with the 2009 H1N1 pandemic flu, we assume that the progression of flu infection varies from region to region, with some regions starting their flu waves weeks before others. We also assume that vaccine doses only become available after flu waves have already started in some regions. Whereas the traditional deployment of vaccines is in direct proportion to resident population, without regard to flu status in any region, we show that a new policy that dynamically considers the status of the various regional flu waves can dramatically reduce the incidence of flu infection over the entire country. The method uses mathematical models of flu spread and requires capturing real-time data on flu incidence.
Endoscopy: part 2 - flexible endoscopy: the inside story
Authors: Robertson Elise
Published: June 2013

Flexible endoscopy has finally become recognised as a highly valuable, but sadly, underutilised, minimally invasive procedure in small animal practice. It not only allows for visual examination of a significant part of the gastrointestinal (GI) and respiratory tracts, but also provides an opportunity to obtain tissue and cytological samples for laboratory assessment. Endoscopy should be considered an important, and complementary, part of a complete and thorough medical evaluation of the GI or respiratory tracts. This article, the second of three in this endoscopy series, will provide an introduction and practical guide to flexible upper GI endoscopy for the small animal practitioner.
Identification using microchips in exotic species
Authors: Pellett Sarah , Cope Iain
Published: June 2013

This article, the first in a series of exotic articles, discusses the methods of physically identifying exotic pets now kept commonly in captivity and presented to the clinician in practice. Identification allows association to an owner and allows completion of any paperwork such as CITES and import/export forms. The different identification methods will be described, from rings to microchips. Methods and location of application will be explained, along with any associated risks. A further three articles will cover species identification by visual methods and basic husbandry will be outlined, together with methods to aid in accurate sexing of captive reptiles, birds and small mammals.
Self-Assembled DNA-Based Structures for Nanoelectronics
Authors: Linko Veikko , Toppari J. Jussi
Published: June 2013

Recent developments in structural DNA nanotechnology have made com-plex and spatially exactly controlled self-assembled DNA nanoarchitectureswidely accessible. The available methods enable large variety of differ-ent possible shapes combined with the possibility of using DNA structuresas templates for high-resolution patterning of nano-objects, thus openingup various opportunities for diverse nanotechnological applications. TheseDNA motifs possess enormous possibilities to be exploited in realization ofmolecular scale sensors and electronic devices, and thus, could enable fur-ther miniaturization of electronics. However, there are arguably two mainissues on making use of DNA-based electronics: (1) incorporation of indi-vidual DNA designs into larger extrinsic systems is rather challenging, and(2) electrical properties of DNA molecules and the utilizable DNA templatesthemselves, are not yet fully understood. This review focuses on the abovementioned issues and also briefly summarizes the potential applications ofDNA-based electronic devices.
Leucine Zipper Tumor Suppressor 2 Inhibits Cell Proliferation and Regulates Lef/Tcf-dependent Transcription through Akt/GSK3β Signaling Pathway in Lung Cancer
Authors: Cui Quan-Zhe , Tang Zhong-Ping , Zhang Xiu-Peng , Zhao Huan-Yu , Dong Qian-Ze , Xu Ke , Wang En-Hua
Published: June 2013

Leucine zipper tumor suppressor 2 (LZTS2) is implicated in several cancers; however, its biological mechanisms in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) are not yet understood. We found that low levels of LZTS2 in NSCLC were correlated with tumor and nodal status. LZTS2 could inhibit cell proliferation and cell cycle transition at the G1/S phase and was implicated in the regulation of proteins associated with the canonical Wnt pathway, including GSK3β and β-catenin through inactivating the Akt pathway. These results provide novel mechanistic insight into the biological roles of LZTS2 in lung cancer cells.
The graph and network theory as a tool to model and simulate the dynamics of infectious diseases
Authors: Bartosiak Cezary , Kasprzyk Rafał , Najgebauer Andrzej
Published: June 2013

In this paper, we consider the utilization of the graph and network theory in the field of modeling and simulating the dynamics of infectious diseases. We describe basic principles and tools and show how we can use them to fight against the spread of this phenomenon. We also present our software solutions that can be used to support decision-making activities.
Analysis of tremor in motor learning task
Authors: Walecki Piotr , Lasoń Wojciech , Kunc Marek , Gorzelańczyk Edward J.
Published: June 2013

Hand-eye coordination is required in many skilled tasks. Individual differences affect the performance of people at work and leisure, for example, during assembly jobs or sports. The aim of this study was to determine whether motor learning can change the physiological action of hand tremor. Tremor is a repetitive and stereotyped movement, with regular frequency and amplitude, but there are different types of tremors with pattern variation. The results were calculated by participants’ time-on and time-off the target, the average distance from the center of the target, and the frequency of oscillatory movement of a cursor (tremor). The results of this study indicate a statistically significant (p<0.05) influence of effect of task repetition on improvement of motor control and reduction of a high-amplitude tremor and an increase of a low-amplitude tremor. The assessed individuals achieved more than 50% better outcomes of a hand-eye coordination task in the final trials when compared with the initial trials. The dynamics of motor learning tend to rise, with a steady level of a 1-h interval between trials.
A pharmacogenomic approach to the treatment of children with GH deficiency or Turner syndrome
Authors: Clayton P , Chatelain P , Tatò L , Yoo H W , Ambler G R , Belgorosky A , Quinteiro S , Deal C , Stevens A , Raelson J , Croteau P , Destenaves B , Olivier C
Published: June 2013

Objective

Individual sensitivity to recombinant human GH (r-hGH) is variable. Identification of genetic factors contributing to this variability has potential use for individualization of treatment. The objective of this study was to identify genetic markers and gene expression profiles associated with growth response on r-hGH therapy in treatment-naïve, prepubertal children with GH deficiency (GHD) or Turner syndrome (TS).

Design

A prospective, multicenter, international, open-label pharmacogenomic study.

Methods

The associations of genotypes in 103 growth- and metabolism-related genes and baseline gene expression profiles with growth response to r-hGH (cm/year) over the first year were evaluated. Genotype associations were assessed with growth response as a continuous variable and as a categorical variable divided into quartiles.

Results

Eleven genes in GHD and ten in TS, with two overlapping between conditions, were significantly associated with growth response either as a continuous variable (seven in GHD, two in TS) or as a categorical variable (four more in GHD, eight more in TS). For example, in GHD, GRB10 was associated with high response (≥Q3; P=0.0012), while SOS2 was associated with low response (≤Q1; P=0.006), while in TS, LHX4 was associated with high response (P=0.0003) and PTPN1 with low response (P=0.0037). Differences in expression were identified for one of the growth response-associated genes in GHD (AKT1) and for two in TS (KRAS and MYOD1).

Conclusions

Carriage of specific growth-related genetic markers is associated with growth response in GHD and TS. These findings indicate that pharmacogenomics could have a role in individualized management of childhood growth disorders.
Mixed companies as local utilities
Authors: da Cruz Nuno Ferreira , Marques Rui Cunha
Published: June 2013

The use of public–private partnership arrangements by public authorities has been a hot topic in recent literature. Both practitioners and academics stress the need to expose best practices and develop guidelines to cope with these complex governance structures. Nonetheless, research on the specific case of mixed companies (institutionalised public–private partnerships) has been somewhat neglected. This paper discusses the rationale behind the use of these arrangements by local governments. Although theoretically the model has some merits, in practice it usually fails in protecting the public interest.
Televised Antismoking Advertising: Effects of Level and Duration of Exposure
Authors: Dunlop Sally , Cotter Trish , Perez Donna , Wakefield Melanie
Published: June 2013

Objectives. We assessed the effects of levels and duration of exposure to televised antismoking advertising on cognitive and behavioral changes.

Methods. We used data from a serial cross-sectional telephone survey with weekly interviews of adult smokers and recent quitters in New South Wales, Australia (n = 13 301), between April 2005 and December 2010. We merged survey data with commercial TV ratings data to estimate individuals’ exposure to antismoking advertising.

Results. Logistic regression analyses indicated that after adjustment for a wide range of potential confounders, exposure to antismoking advertising at levels between 100 and 200 gross rating points per week on average over 6 to 9 weeks was associated with an increased likelihood of having (1) salient quitting thoughts and (2) recent quit attempts. Associations between exposure for shorter periods and these outcomes were not significant.

Conclusions. Broadcasting schedules may affect the success of antismoking ads. Campaign planners should ensure advertising exposure at adequate frequency over relatively sustained periods to maximize impact.
A Sexual Risk and Stress Reduction Intervention Designed for HIV-Positive Bisexual African American Men With Childhood Sexual Abuse Histories
Authors: Williams John K. , Glover Dorie A. , Wyatt Gail E. , Kisler Kimberly , Liu Honghu , Zhang Muyu
Published: June 2013

Objectives. HIV transmission risk is high among men who have sex with men and women (MSMW), and it is further heightened by a history of childhood sexual abuse (CSA) and current traumatic stress or depression. Yet, traumatic stress is rarely addressed in HIV interventions. We tested a stress-focused sexual risk reduction intervention for African American MSMW with CSA histories.

Methods. This randomized controlled trial compared a stress-focused sexual risk reduction intervention with a general health promotion intervention. Sexual risk behaviors, psychological symptoms, stress biomarkers (urinary cortisol and catecholamines), and neopterin (an indicator of HIV progression) were assessed at baseline and at 3- and 6-month follow-ups.

Results. Both interventions decreased and sustained reductions in sexual risk and psychological symptoms. The stress-focused intervention was more efficacious than the general health promotion intervention in decreasing unprotected anal insertive sex and reducing depression symptoms. Despite randomization, baseline group differences in CSA severity, psychological symptoms, and biomarkers were found and linked to subsequent intervention outcomes.

Conclusions. Although interventions designed specifically for HIV-positive African American MSMW can lead to improvements in health outcomes, future research is needed to examine factors that influence intervention effects.
Dietary Outcomes in a Spanish-Language Randomized Controlled Diabetes Prevention Trial With Pregnant Latinas
Authors: Kieffer Edith C. , Welmerink Diana B. , Sinco Brandy R. , Welch Kathleen B. , Rees Clayton Erin M. , Schumann Christina Y. , Uhley Virginia E.
Published: June 2013

Objectives. We evaluated the effectiveness of a community-based healthy lifestyle intervention in improving dietary behaviors of pregnant Latinas from 2004 to 2006 in Detroit, Michigan.

Methods. The 11-week, culturally tailored, Spanish-language Healthy Mothers on the Move (MOMs) intervention offered home visits, group classes, related activities, and social support from trained community health workers (CHWs) and peers. Dietary behaviors were measured by food frequency questionnaire. Linear mixed models estimated pre- and post-intervention changes, within and between MOMs intervention and minimal intervention (MI) groups.

Results. MOMs (n = 139) and MI (n = 139) participants had similar baseline characteristics and dietary intake. Post-intervention, MOMs participants showed significant improvement in all dietary behaviors, except fruit and fiber consumption. Compared with MI participants, MOMs participants had significantly decreased consumption of added sugar (P = .05), total fat (P < .05), saturated fat (P < .01), percentage of daily calories from saturated fat (P < .001), solid fats and added sugars (P < .001), and had increased vegetable consumption (P < .001). Their increase in fiber consumption (P < .05) was significant relative to MI participants’ decrease in fiber intake.

Conclusions. We confirmed the hypothesis that a community-planned, CHW-led healthy lifestyle intervention could improve dietary behaviors of low-income Latina women during pregnancy.
Long-Term Effects of Laws Governing Youth Access to Tobacco
Authors: Grucza Richard A. , Plunk Andrew D , Hipp Pamela R. , Cavazos-Rehg Patricia , Krauss Melissa J. , Brownson Ross C. , Bierut Laura J.
Published: June 2013

Objectives. We sought to examine the association between policies governing access to tobacco during adolescence and subsequent adult smoking.

Methods. We analyzed adult smoking data from the 1998 through 2006–2007 administrations of the US Current Population Survey Tobacco Use Supplement by employing a quasi experimental approach. Participants (n = 105 519) were adults, aged 18 to 34 years at the time of the survey. Smoking outcomes included having ever smoked 100 cigarettes, smoking at the time of the survey, and having smoked 10 or more cigarettes a day conditioned on being an ever smoker. These were predicted from exposure to state youth access policies at age 17 years.

Results. Four of the 9 policies exhibited significant associations with reduced prevalence of 1 or more smoking outcomes, primarily among women. Lesser effects for other policies could not be ruled out.

Conclusions. Restrictions on youth access to tobacco might lead to reduction in smoking prevalence later in adulthood. The effect might be limited to women; we estimate that having all policies in place could be associated with a 14% reduction in lifetime smoking prevalence for women, and an additional 29% reduction in heavy smoking among ever smokers.
Adoption and Implementation of Policies to Support Preventive Dentistry Initiatives for Physicians: A National Survey of Medicaid Programs
Authors: Sams Lattice D. , Rozier R. Gary , Wilder Rebecca S. , Quinonez Rocio B.
Published: June 2013

Objectives. We determined the number of state Medicaid programs adopting initiatives to support preventive dental services provision by nondental health care professionals, their perceived attributes, and implementation barriers.

Methods. We used Qualtrics to conduct a cross-sectional survey in 2008 of Medicaid dental program managers to determine organizational stage of adoption classified according to the Transtheoretical Model of Behavior Change with 3-year follow-up. We assessed perceptions of the influence of 18 initiative attributes on the decision to adopt, drawn from Roger’s diffusion of innovations theory. Stage and date of adoption are presented descriptively. Attributes and barriers were analyzed by stage of adoption by using analyses of variance or χ2 statistics.

Results. By 2011, 42 states had adopted a policy. Only 9 states included a comprehensive set of preventive services, the most common being fluoride varnish. Adoption was affected by perceived initiative simplicity and its compatibility with other Medicaid programs. Administrative barriers were the most common among the 15 studied.

Conclusions. State Medicaid policies to reimburse nondental providers for preventive dental services are becoming widespread. Interventions are needed to ensure oral health services delivery at the practice level.
Substance Use Among HIV-Infected Patients Engaged in Primary Care in the United States: Findings From the Centers for AIDS Research Network of Integrated Clinical Systems Cohort
Authors: Mimiaga Matthew J. , Reisner Sari L. , Grasso Chris , Crane Heidi M. , Safren Steven A. , Kitahata Mari M. , Schumacher Joseph E. , Mathews W. Christopher , Mayer Kenneth H.
Published: June 2013

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to better understand substance use behaviors and deleterious health consequences among individuals with HIV.

Methods. We examined a multicenter cohort of HIV-infected patients (n = 3413) receiving care in 4 US cities (Seattle, Birmingham, San Diego, Boston) between December 2005 and April 2010 in the Centers for AIDS Research Network of Integrated Clinical Systems (CNICS). We used generalized estimating equations to model specific substance use outcomes.

Results. Overall, 24% of patients reported recent use of marijuana; 9% reported amphetamine use, 9% reported crack–cocaine use, 2% reported opiate use, 3.8% reported injection drug use, and 10.3% reported polydrug use. In adjusted multivariable models, those who reported unprotected anal sex had higher odds of marijuana, amphetamine, injection drug, and polydrug use. An increased number of distinct vaginal sexual partners was associated with polydrug and crack–cocaine use. Nonadherence to antiretroviral therapy was associated with the use of all substances other than marijuana.

Conclusions. The co-occurrence of substance use, unprotected intercourse, and medication nonadherence could attenuate the public health benefits of test, treat, and link to care strategies. Prevention programs are needed that address these coprevalent conditions.
Can Managers Use Discretionary Accruals to Ease Financial Constraints? Evidence from Discretionary Accruals Prior to Investment
Authors: Linck James S. , Netter Jeffry , Shu Tao
Published: June 2013

Despite a large literature on discretionary accruals, how the use of discretionary accruals impacts corporate financial decisions is not well understood. We hypothesize that a financially constrained firm with valuable projects can use discretionary accruals to credibly signal positive prospects, enabling it to raise capital to make the investments. We examine a large panel of firms during 1987 to 2009 and find that financially constrained firms with good investment opportunities have significantly higher discretionary accruals prior to investment compared to their unconstrained counterparts. Constrained high-accrual firms have higher earnings-announcement returns than constrained low-accrual firms, obtain more equity and debt financing, and invest in projects that appear to improve performance. These results provide supporting evidence that the use of discretionary accruals can help constrained firms with valuable projects ease those constraints and increase firm value.

Data Availability: Data are available from public sources indicated in the text.
Effect of enamel laser irradiation at different pulse settings on shear bond strength of orthodontic brackets
Authors: Sağır Serkan , Usumez Aslıhan , Ademci Ebru , Usumez Serdar
Published: June 2013

Objective:

To compare the effect of laser irradiation at two different pulse settings and acid etching on the shear bond strength (SBS) of orthodontic brackets to enamel.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty-six premolars were allocated to three groups (n  =  12): (1) 37% phosphoric acid etching, (2) erbium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Er:YAG) laser etching with medium-short pulse mode (MSP; 100 µs, 120 mj, 10 Hz, 1.2 W), and (3) Er:YAG laser etching with quantum-square pulse mode (QSP; 120 mj, 10 Hz, 1.2 W). Metallic brackets were bonded with Transbond XT. After photopolymerization, the samples were subjected to 5000 thermal cycles and debonded with a universal testing machine, and the SBS values were recorded. Surface morphology was evaluated with profilometric examination, scanning electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. The adhesive remnant index (ARI) was evaluated to assess the remaining adhesive.

Results:

The results of SBS testing were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance and Tukey honestly significant diffference tests. The mean SBS values of QSP and MSP laser groups were 11.80 ± 2.7 MPa and 10.10 ± 4.5 MPa, respectively, and the QSP group demonstrated significantly higher SBS (P < .01) than that of the acid-etched group (6.6 ± 2.4 MPa). No significant difference was observed between the SBS values of the two laser groups (P < .05). The difference between the ARI scores of the laser groups and the acid-etched group was statistically significant (P < .05).

Conclusion:

Laser etching at MSP and QSP modes present successful alternatives to acid etching; however, long-term clinical studies are required to verify clinical success.
Chlorophyll distribution by oceanic model and satellite data in the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea
Authors: Suwannathatsa Sakharin , Wongwises Prungchan
Published: June 2013

An oceanic model and satellite data are used to evaluate the seasonal distribution of chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) in the Bay of Bengal (BoB) and Andaman Sea.

Satellite data show high Chl-a concentrations because high Chl-a concentrations reduce CO2 and increase O2 at the sea surface, indicating fish abundance in the ocean. Sample collection alone cannot provide an accurate overview of Chl-a concentration over an entire region.

The satellite data concerning Chl-a concentration, phytoplankton absorption coefficient, and Sea Surface Temperature (SST) are from the Sea-viewing Wide Field-of-view Sensor (SeaWiFS) project and from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS). The oceanic model is created to give the surface circulation as a result. The research finds that the simulation is in agreement with SST, Chl-a concentration, and phytoplankton absorption coefficients obtained from satellites. The conclusion is that the oceanic model can be used to implicitly explain the seasonal distribution of Chl-a in the Bay of Bengal and Andaman sea.
Gas chromatographic-mass spectrometric investigation of the chemical composition of the aquatic plant Wolffia arrhiza (Lemnaceae)
Authors: Kotowska Urszula , Piotrowska Alicja , Isidorova Anastasija , Bajguz Andrzej , Isidorov Valery
Published: June 2013

The ether and methanol extracts of Wolffia arrhiza (Lemnaceae) were analyzed using high resolution capillary gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The ether extract contains 32 compounds, mostly lipids and sterols, among which β-sitosterol is most prevalent. This is the first evidence of β-sitosterol detection in W. arrhiza. The most representative group of polar compounds of the methanol fraction is formed by 18 free amino acids. In addition, in the methanol extract there are a number of other nitrogen containing compounds: nucleobase and nucleosides. The third significant group in the total ion current in the methanol extract is formed by glycerol and glycerides. At the same time, the content of free sugar is very low.
Improving maps of ice-sheet surface elevation change using combined laser altimeter and stereoscopic elevation model data
Authors: Levinsen J.F. , Howat I.M. , Tscherning C.C.
Published: June 2013

We combine the complementary characteristics of laser altimeter data and stereoscopic digital elevation models (DEMs) to construct high-resolution (∼100 m) maps of surface elevations and elevation changes over rapidly changing outlet glaciers in Greenland. Measurements from spaceborne and airborne laser altimeters have relatively low errors but are spatially limited to the ground tracks, while DEMs have larger errors but provide spatially continuous surfaces. The principle of our method is to fit the DEM surface to the altimeter point clouds in time and space to minimize the DEM errors and use that surface to extrapolate elevations away from altimeter flight lines. This reduces the DEM registration errors and fills the gap between the altimeter paths. We use data from ICESat and ATM as well as SPOT 5 DEMs from 2007 and 2008 and apply them to the outlet glaciers Jakobshavn Isbræ (JI) and Kangerdlugssuaq (KL). We find that the main trunks of JI and KL lowered at rates of 30–35 and 7–20 m a−1,respectively. The rates decreased inland. The corresponding errors were 0.3–5.2 m a−1for JI and 0.3–5.1 m a−1for KL, with errors increasing proportionally with distance from the altimeter paths.
Assessing a multilayered dynamic firn-compaction model for Greenland with ASIRAS radar measurements
Authors: Simonsen Sebastian B. , Stenseng Lars , Ađalgeirsdóttir Guðfinna , Fausto Robert S. , Hvidberg Christine S. , Lucas-Picher Philippe
Published: June 2013

A method to assess firn compaction using data collected with the Airborne SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar)/Interferometric Radar Altimeter System (ASIRAS) is developed. For this, we develop a dynamical firn-compaction model that includes meltwater retention. Based on the ASIRAS data, which show internal layers as annual horizons in the uppermost firn, the method relies on inferring the age/ depth (internal layers) information from the radar data using a Monte Carlo inversion technique to tune in parallel both the firn model and the atmospheric forcing parameters (temperature and accumulation). The model is validated against two firn cores, and it is shown that applying both firn densities and age/ depth information for the inversion gives the most accurate understanding of model biases. The method is then applied to a 67 km section of the EGIG line forced by atmospheric output from a regional climate model using only age/depth information in the inversion step. The layers traced by the ASIRAS data are modeled with a root-mean-square error of 9 cm, which is within the estimated error of the layer tracing. This gives us confidence in applying observed annual layering from firn radar data to assess firn compaction; however, the study also indicates that our firn-model-tuning parameters are site-dependent and cannot be parameterized by temperature and accumulation alone.
Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path Analysis in Stem Amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor L.) Genotypes
Authors: Hasan M , Akther CA , Raihan MS
Published: June 2013

Seventeen genotypes of stem amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor L.) were evaluated to determine the genetic variability, degree of association between yield and its component characters. The direct and indirect effects of marketable yield were also evaluated. High heritability with high genetic advance as percent of mean was registered for number of leaf, leaf weight and marketable yield which in fact demonstrated the presence of additive gene effects. The correlation studies revealed strong positive association of yield with leaf weight, stem weight, stem diameter, dry weight with rind, and dry weight without rind. The relationship was non-significant and negative at 1st flowering. The result of path analysis indicated that stem weight had maximum direct effect on marketable yield followed by leaf weight, leaf number and dry weight without rind. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/agric.v11i1.15235 The Agriculturists 2013; 11(1) 1-7
Farmers Participatory Site Specific Nutrient Management in Gangetic Tidal Floodplain Soil for High Yielding Boro Rice (Oryza Sativa L.)
Authors: Nath DK , Haque F , Amin F , Islam M Sh , Saleque MA
Published: June 2013

Site Specific Nutrient Management (SSNM) trials were conducted for irrigated, transplanted and high yielding rice (Oryza sativa L.) during Boro season 2012. Four treatments (NPK, PK, NK, and NP) were applied in a randomized complete block design to assess the effects of indigenous nutrient elements on rice yield and yield components. The trials were conducted so as to develop a site specific nutrient management approach for the farmers of Gangtic Tidal Floodplain ecosystem. The highest grain-yield of 5.64 t ha-1 was observed in NPK treatment, which gave 9.0, 34.4 and 50.7% higher yields than those of NP, NK and PK, respectively. The response to indigenous K was remarkable and it gave the second highest yield (5.13 t ha-1). The yield response to indigenous N was very poor and the lowest yield was found in N omission treatment (2.78 t ha-1). The response to indigenous P was also poor (3.7 t ha-1). This result shows that nitrogen and phosphorus are the most vibrant factors to increase yield since omission of N and P had significant impact on yield during Boro season. Use of N, P and K at 128.7, 8.08 and 12.78 kg, respectively could be recommended for growing BRRI dhan47 in Boro season. It could save P and K nutrient by 55.11 and 75.89 % compared to that of NPK treatment, respectively. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/agric.v11i1.15236 The Agriculturists 2013; 11(1) 8-14
Conjunctive Use of Saline and Fresh Water for Irrigating Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) at Different Growth Stages
Authors: Mojid MA , Hossain ABM Zahid
Published: June 2013

An experiment was conducted at the Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh during 2008 2009 and 20092010 to investigate the impacts of irrigation by saline water (7 dS m-1) at different growth stages of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Irrigations at crown root initiation (CRI) (T1) or booting (T2) or flowering (T3) or grain filling (T4) stage by saline water but at other growth stages by fresh water, and irrigation at all growth stages by fresh water (T5, control) were applied. Wheat was cultivated in two consecutive years (2008  2010) under four irrigations and with recommended fertilizer doses. Irrigation water having salinity of 7 dS m-1 did not significantly influence plant height, spike density, spikelets per spike, 1000-grain weight, grain yield, biomass yield and harvest index. The observed diminutive variations among the treatments reflected only non harmful impacts of salinity. Irrigation water salinity, however, significantly reduced spike length and grains per spike in most cases in the first year only. Treatment T4 producing, on an average over two years, the lowest grain yield (30% less compared to T5), grains per spike, spike length and spikelets per spike revealed that the grain filling stage of wheat was the most sensitive to irrigation water salinity. Although application of one of four irrigations by water of salinity 7 dS m-1 did not impart significant effect on wheat production, it was beneficial to avoid such irrigation at the grain filling stage. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/agric.v11i1.15237 The Agriculturists 2013; 11(1) 15-23
Status and Economics of Three Fresh Fish Markets in the North -West Region of Bangladesh
Authors: Flowra FA , Afroze MM , Salam MA , Joadder MAR , Jewel MAS
Published: June 2013

A study was conducted to analyze the status of fish marketing system in Parbatipur upazilla of Dinajpur district in the northwest region of Bangladesh during December 2010 to May 2011. The marketing chain from farmers to consumers in all the three fish markets was found to pass through a number of intermediaries. Four types of marketing channel were identified. The average marketing cost of retailer was 3.69 Tk/kg. The net marketing margin of the retailers for Indian major carps and Exotic carps were 8.42 and 19.17 Tk/kg, respectively. Seasonal variations in prices were observed with the highest in summer (March to May) and the lowest in winter (December to January). A number of constraints were identified. The infrastructure, transportation and packaging facilities were not satisfactory and sufficient in all the three fish markets under survey. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/agric.v11i1.15238 The Agriculturists 2013; 11(1) 24-32
Effect of Row Spacing and Cultivar on the Growth and Seed Yield of Soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merrill) in Kharif-II Season
Authors: Rahman MM , Rahman MM , Hossain MM
Published: June 2013

An experiment was conducted at the Agronomy Field Laboratory of Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh during Kharif-II season 2005 to investigate the effect of row spacing and cultivars on the growth and yield of soybean. Three soybean cultivars: (1) Bangladesh Soybean -4 (G- 2), (2) BARI soybean -5 (BS-5) and (3) Shohag (PB-1) and four row spacings, (1) 20 cm, (2) 30 cm, (3) 40 cm and (4) 50 cm were used in the experiment in a split-plot design with row spacing in the main plot and cultivars in the sub-plot. Seeds were sown on 26 July 2005 at specified rows maintaining 5 cm plant to plant distance. The highest seed yield was obtained from 20 cm spacing and yield decreased with increased spacing irrespective of cultivars. Among cultivars the highest yield was given by cultivar BS-5 which was followed by PB-1. It was concluded that the soybean cultivars BS-5 and PB-1 could be selected for sowing in Kharif-II season and should be planted at 20 cm apart rows for achieving higher yield. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/agric.v11i1.15239 The Agriculturists 2013; 11(1) 33-38
Pathogenesis of Infectious Coryza in Chickens (Gallus gallus) by Avibacterium paragallinarumn Isolate of Bangladesh
Authors: Ali M , Hossain MS , Akter S , Khan MAHNA , Hossain MM
Published: June 2013

An investigation was conducted to isolate and identify the causal agent of infectious coryza (IC) with pathogenesis study by local isolate of Avibacterium paragallinarum in chicks in Bangladesh. One isolate of A. paragallinarum was used to study the experimental pathogenesis. For this, 14 days old 24 chicks were grouped into two (A and B) and each group contained 12 birds. Chicks of group A were inoculated with 1ml of 2 days old nutrient broth and were kept as control group while group B were inoculated with 1 ml of 2 days old culture broth of A. paragallinarum. To study the pathology, 4 birds from each group were sacrificed on day 3, 5 and 7 of post inoculation. Sacrificed birds of group A did not reveal any clinical sign and lesion. Chicks of group B showed mild nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, depression and inability to move. The gross lesions of the chicks of group B included mucous in nasal passage, conjunctivitis, swelling of sinuses and face and congested lungs. The microscopic lesions of the chicks of this group were acanthosis and congested blood vessels of nasal passage, pneumonic lesion of lung, focal hepatitis of liver and fatty change and lipid nodules in macrophages of heart which were progressively prominent on day 7 of bacterial inoculation. A. paragallinarum was reisolated from day 7 of post inoculation (PI) from nasal passage of chicks in which lesions were prominent. The proposed experimental pathogenesis was after intranasal inoculation with A. paragallinarum, rhinitis developed, bacteria entered into blood, reached different organs producing lesions. The lesions which are discussed here (rhinitis in association with focal hepatitis, fatty change in heart with lipid granuloma, progressive pneumonic lesions) are not usually present in adult and young birds. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/agric.v11i1.15240 The Agriculturists 2013; 11(1) 39-46
Bacteriological and Pathological Investigation of Nasal Passage Infections of Chickens (Gallus gallus)
Authors: Hossain MS , Akter S , Ali M , Das PM , Hossain MM
Published: June 2013

An experiment was conducted at the Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh during July 2011 to May 2012 to investigate the prevalence of bacteria as well as pathological lesions in the nasal passages of dead chickens. Thirty nasal passage swabs from 30 dead birds (20 from SK Veterinary Diagnostic Centre (SKVDC) and 10 from the Department of Pathology, BAU were collected in sterile nutrient broth. The histopathological samples (n=6) were collected in 10% neutral buffered formalin. The isolation and identification of bacteria were performed by culturing in different media, staining and biochemical tests. The collected tissues were fixed, processed, sectioned, stained and studied with light microscope. The prevalence of bacteria 30.43% Escherichia coli, 47.83% Staphylococcus sp., 13.04% Pasteurella sp., and 8.69% Klebsiella sp. were found in nasal passages (n=30) of dead chickens. Two cases of mixed infection with E. coli and Pasteurella isolates, and one case with Klebsiella and E. coli isolates were identified. Six tissue samples of grossly identifiable lesions such as congested and mucus filled nasal passages from 6 dead chickens were processed for histopathology. Microscopically, the section of nasal passages in general showed congested mucosa with excessive infiltration of heterophils and lymphocytes. The lining epithelia of nasal passage revealed acanthosis, hyperkeratosis and disruption of nasal epithelia. There was also hyperplasia of different mucous glands of nasal passages. Klebsiella sp. affected nasal tissues showed comparatively severe lesions than that of other bacterial infection in chickens. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/agric.v11i1.15241 The Agriculturists 2013; 11(1) 47-55
An Evaluation of Some Japanese Lisianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum) Varieties Grown in Bangladesh
Authors: Uddin AFM Jamal , Islam MS , Mehraj H , Roni MZK , Shahrin S
Published: June 2013

A pot experiment was conducted for the first time in Bangladesh, at the Horticulture Farm of Sher-e- Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka during November, 2010 to July, 2011 to asses the adaptability of seven lisianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum) cultivars namely Micky Rose, Pink Rose, Azuma No Yosooi, Purple Edge Glass, Piccolo Blue, Mellow Purple and Royal Violet for commercial cultivation in Bangladesh. The experiment was conducted in a Randomized Complete Block Design with nine replications. Significant differences among cultivars were noted for all the attributes evaluated. The highest number of flowers (16.0/plant) was produced by Piccolo Blue and the lowest from Pink Rose (7.0/plant). All the cultivars in this study showed very good shelf life (12.0-25.0days) in normal condition. All the seven lisianthus cultivars performed satisfactorily as ideal cut flowers. Further work may be done to develop these as commercial cultivars in Bangladesh. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/agric.v11i1.15243 The Agriculturists 2013; 11(1) 56-60
Effect of Sowing Date on Germination and Vigour of Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr) Seeds
Authors: Rahman MM , Rahman MM , Hossain MM
Published: June 2013

An experiment was carried out at the Agronomy Field Laboratory of Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh during three consecutive seasons in 2004-2006 to find out the effect of sowing date on physiological quality of soybean seed. The experiments included six sowing dates viz. 4 Nov, 24 Nov, 14 Dec, 3 Jan, 23 Jan and 12 Feb and two cultivars namely G-2 and PB-1 in Rabi 2004-05; four sowing dates viz. 25 Jul, 14 Aug, 3 Sept and 23 Sept and three cultivars namely G-2, PB-1 and BS-5 in Kharif II 2005; four sowing dates viz. 26 Nov, 16 Dec, 5 Jan, and 25 Jan, and two cultivars viz. G-2 and PB-1 in Rabi 2005-06. The experiments were conducted in split-plot design with three replications. Results revealed that cultivar G-2 had higher germination and vigour than cultivar PB-1 or BS-5 in all the three seasons. November and December sowing produced seeds with higher germination and vigour for all the cultivars in Rabi season. On the other hand, September sowing produced seeds with high germination and vigour during Kharif II. The study indicated that soybean seeds with high germination and vigour could be obtained by sowing during November to December in Rabi season and August to September in Kharif-II season. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/agric.v11i1.15245 The Agriculturists 2013; 11(1) 67-75
Effect of Nitrogen on the Growth and Yield of Carrot (Daucus carota L.)
Authors: Moniruzzaman M , Akand MH , Hossain MI , Sarkar MD , Ullah A
Published: June 2013

An experiment was carried out at farmers field in Debigonj, Panchagorh during November 2009 to February 2010 to evaluate the effect of four levels of applied nitrogen on the growth and yield of carrot. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. The maximum plant height (47.36 cm), root length (16.17 cm), fresh weight of leaves (145.1 g), dry matter content (11.66 g) of leaves, fresh weight of root (68.33 g), dry matter content of root (15.90%), gross yield (22.55 t/ha) and marketable yield (20.67 t/ha) were found in 100 kg N/ha. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/agric.v11i1.15246 The Agriculturists 2013; 11(1) 76-81
Genetic Divergence in Stem Amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor L.) Genotypes for Yield and its Component Characters
Authors: Akther CA , Hasan M , Raihan MS , Hossain MM , Mian MAK
Published: June 2013

An investigation was carried out to identify the extent of genetic divergence that exist for the yield and yield contributing characters of seventeen genotypes of amaranth using Mahalanobis D2 analysis. Analysis of variance showed significant difference among the genotypes for most of the characters studied. The genotypes under study fell into 4 clusters. The distribution pattern indicated that the maximum number of genotypes (6) was included in cluster (IV) followed by cluster III (5) and cluster II (5), and the minimum number was in cluster I (1). The inter cluster distance in most of the cases was higher than the intra cluster distance, which indicated wider genetic diversity among the accessions of different groups. The highest inter cluster distance was observed between IV and I, followed by the distance between cluster II and I showing wide diversity among the groups. The lowest inter-cluster distance was observed between clusters III and II suggesting a close relationship among the genotypes of these two clusters. The highest intra-cluster distance was observed for the cluster IV and the lowest for the cluster I. The positive values of vector I and vector 2 for stem weight and weight of leaf indicated that these two characters had the highest contribution towards the divergence among the stem amaranths. The genotypes of stem amaranth from cluster I and cluster IV may be selected as parents in future hybridization program. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/agric.v11i1.15247 The Agriculturists 2013; 11(1) 82-88