bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advantages of Mixing Common Vetch Cultivars Developed from Conventional Breeding Programs when Grown under Low‐Input Farming System
Authors: Vlachostergios D. N. , Lithourgidis A. S. , Dordas C. A. , Baxevanos D.
Published: April 2011

Cultivar mixtures are suggested for low‐input farming systems because they introduce functional diversity. The lack of common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) cultivars bred for and adapted to low‐input farming systems raises the issue of whether the mixtures composed from varieties developed under conventional conditions can satisfy the demands of low‐input agriculture. The objective of this project was to evaluate the performance of five common vetch varieties and mixtures of these varieties in a low‐input system. Three‐year preliminary experiments were conducted among widely adapted cultivars bred under high‐input conditions to select the most productive cultivars. Thus, five common vetch cultivars and their mixtures were evaluated under low‐input farming system (2007–2009). Dry matter (DM) production and crude protein content were measured for each entry. Mixture effect (ME) was calculated to measure the relative performance of a mixture over its components. Genotype main effect plus genotype × environment interaction (GGE) biplot analysis was used to assess yield and stability. It was observed that ME for DM was positive for three mixtures over environments and ranged from 0.19 to 4.63 Mg ha−1 GGE biplot analysis indicated that two of the previous three mixtures exhibited the greatest yield and stability. Crude protein values of the mixtures were at least comparable with their individual cultivar components. These results showed considerable advantages of mixing common vetch cultivars bred under high‐input conditions for use in low‐input farming system.
Prediction Assessment of Linear Mixed Models for Multienvironment Trials
Authors: Burgueño Juan , Crossa José , Cotes José Miguel , Vicente Felix San , Das Biswanath
Published: April 2011

Fixed linear models have been used for describing genotype × environment interaction (GE). Previous attempts have been made to assess the predictive ability of some linear mixed models when GE components are treated as random effects and modeled by the factor analytic (FA) model. This study compares the predictive ability of linear mixed models when the GE is modeled by the FA model with that of simple linear mixed models when the GE is not modeled. A cross‐validation scheme is used that randomly deletes some genotypes from sites; the values for these genotypes are then predicted by the different models and correlated with their observed values to assess model accuracy. A total of six multienvironment trials (one potato [Solanum tuberosum L.] trial, three maize [Zea mays L.] trials, and two wheat [Triticum aestivum L.] trials) with GE of varying complexity were used in the evaluation. Results show that for data sets with complex GE, modeling GE using the FA model improved the predictability of the model up to 6%. When GE is not complex, most models (with and without FA) gave high predictability, and models with FA did not seem to lose much predictive ability. Therefore, we concluded that modeling GE with the FA model is a good thing.
Latitudinal Distribution and Differentiation of Rice Germplasm: Its Implications in Breeding
Authors: Xiong Z. Y. , Zhang S. J. , Ford‐Lloyd B. V. , Jin X. , Wu Y. , Yan H. X. , Liu P. , Yang X. , Lu B.‐R.
Published: April 2011

To determine genetic differentiation of rice (Oryza sativa L.) across a latitudinal gradient, a total of 386 rice varieties, five African rice varieties, and 52 wild rice accessions mainly from a wide range of Asia were analyzed using insertion and deletion (InDel) molecular markers. Principal component analysis divided rice into two distinct groups, although African rice and wild rice did not show such grouping. Results indicated significant indica–japonica differentiation of rice adapted to a wide range of environments, contrasting with African rice and wild rice. Analysis of the geographic distribution indicated a clear pattern for different types of rice, in which indica varieties were found across a wide range of latitudes from ∼2° S to 40° N and japonica mostly limited to latitudes greater than 15° N. Most intermediate types were distributed in regions at latitudes lower than 27° N. Correlation between rice types and temperature along the latitude gradients suggested that indica varieties are less sensitive to temperature along the latitude ranges but japonica varieties are highly sensitive to temperature. The distribution and differentiation of various types of rice across the large latitudinal range is most likely the consequence of their adaptation to ecological and environmental factors, especially temperature. This, together with the accurate determination of indica and japonica types has important implications for hybrid rice breeding through selecting properly differentiated parents.
Grass Pea (Lathyrus sativus L.) as a Pre‐Plant Nitrogen Source for Continuous Conventionally Tilled Winter Wheat
Authors: Rao Srinivas C. , Northup Brian K.
Published: April 2011

Sources of organic nitrogen (N) for the southern Great Plains (SGP)—and methods of their use—need testing to find ways to counter the rising cost of N fertilizer. This study examined the function of the cool‐season pulse grass pea (Lathyrus sativus L.) as a pre‐plant N source for continuous, conventionally tilled winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). It was conducted in Oklahoma (35°40′ N, 98°00′ W) during 2004 to 2008, on three replicate blocks of four experimental plots (6 by 10 m). Inoculated grass pea (cv. AC‐Greenfix) seed was sown during late summer fallow (mid August) in one randomly chosen plot per block (75 kg ha−1 seeding rate in 60‐cm rows with 75% germination). Three additional plots per block mimicked traditional summer fallow with no (control), 40, or 80 kg inorganic N ha−1 All treatments were repeated on the same plots throughout the study. Samples were collected from grass pea plots at flowering over a range of 41 to 59 d after planting in different years and analyzed for N and digestibility. Aboveground (AG) biomass of grass pea was then shredded with a flail mower and incorporated before applying fertilizer treatments and sowing (100 kg ha−1) wheat (cv. Jagger) in 20‐cm rows. Aboveground biomass of wheat was collected at three growth stages (elongation, flowering, and maturity) and analyzed for N. Biomass of grass pea contained enough N to meet the needs of wheat at planting (40 kg N ha−1) in only 2 yr. Total AG biomass and N content of wheat under grass pea was similar to the control at elongation and intermediate between no and 40 kg N ha−1 at maturity in 2 yr. Biomass and N content of wheat grain under grass pea were intermediate between no and 40 kg N ha−1 in the first 2 yr and similar to the control thereafter. Therefore, grass pea was marginally effective as a pre‐plant N source for wheat for a limited period but may be more effective in sorghum‐based rotations in the SGP.
Allelic Effect Variation at Key Photoperiod Response Quantitative Trait Loci in Maize
Authors: Coles N. D. , Zila C. T. , Holland J. B.
Published: April 2011

Tropical maize (Zea mays L.) represents a valuable genetic resource containing unique alleles not present in elite temperate maize. The strong delay in flowering in response to long daylength photoperiods exhibited by most tropical maize hinders its incorporation into temperate maize breeding programs. We tested the hypothesis that diverse tropical inbreds carry alleles with similar effects at four key photoperiod response quantitative trait loci (QTL) previously identified in maize. Four tropical maize inbreds were each crossed and backcrossed twice to the temperate recurrent parent B73 to establish four sets of introgression lines. Evaluation of these lines under long daylengths demonstrated that all four QTL have significant effects on flowering time or height in these lines, but the functional allelic effects varied substantially across the tropical donor lines. At the most important photoperiod response QTL on chromosome 10, one tropical line allele even promoted earlier flowering relative to the B73 allele. Significant allelic effect differences among tropical founders were also demonstrated directly in an F2 population derived from the cross of Ki14 and CML254. The chromosome 10 photoperiod response QTL position was validated in a set of heterogeneous inbred families evaluated in field tests and in controlled environments.
Soybean Lutein Concentration: Impact of Crop Management and Genotypes
Authors: Seguin Philippe , Tremblay Gilles , Pageau Denis , Liu Wucheng , Turcotte Pierre
Published: April 2011

Lutein is a carotenoid with health‐beneficial properties found in soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]. A study was conducted in multiple environments in Quebec, Canada, to determine the effects of crop management practices and genotypes on soybean lutein concentrations. Practices evaluated included seeding rate, row spacing, seeding date, and P and K fertilization; lutein variation and stability among 20 genotypes were also studied. Management practices affected soybean lutein concentration to different degrees. Seeding date had the greatest effect on lutein concentration of all factors evaluated, but response varied greatly between environments. Differences in lutein concentration between seeding date treatments averaged 41%. Seeding rate, row spacing, and P and K fertilization effects were minimal. Increasing the seeding rate from 40 to 60 seed m−2 resulted in a 6% increase in lutein concentration. Response to row spacing and P fertilization treatment was inconsistent and differences between treatments were never >8%. There was no response to K fertilization. Large differences were observed between the 20 genotypes evaluated, with lutein concentrations ranging between 4.1 and 10.9 μg g−1 Despite the presence of significant environmental effects, genotypes with consistently high and stable lutein concentrations were identified. Selection and development of high‐lutein cultivars should be possible; however, environmental factors and crop management practices should be considered in the use of soybean as a source of lutein.
Genetic Improvement of the Pee Dee Cotton Germplasm Collection following Seventy Years of Plant Breeding
Authors: Campbell B. T. , Chee P. W. , Lubbers E. , Bowman D. T. , Meredith W. R. , Johnson J. , Fraser D. E.
Published: April 2011

One of the most significant, long‐term public U.S. Upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) germplasm enhancement programs is known as the Pee Dee germplasm program. The unique, genetic foundation of the Pee Dee germplasm was created using germplasm from Upland, Sea Island (Gossypium barbadense L.), and primitive diploid cottons. Since the program's inception in 1935, the Pee Dee germplasm program has released >80 improved germplasm lines and cultivars. In this study, the agronomic and fiber quality performance of Pee Dee germplasm was evaluated across southeastern U.S. environments to estimate genetic improvement within the Pee Dee germplasm program. Results suggest that the Pee Dee germplasm enhancement program has (i) maintained usable genetic variation and (ii) maintained high fiber quality potential while concomitantly improving agronomic performance. Although the results highlight the need to continue improving lint percent, lint yield, and bolls m−2, there is also evidence to suggest that Pee Dee germplasm can continue being utilized to develop the next generation of high‐fiber‐quality and high‐yielding cotton cultivars.
Nursing Theory in Curricula Today: Challenges for Faculty at all Levels of Education
Authors: Donohue-Porter Patricia , Forbes Maryann O , White Jane H.
Published: April 2011

Nursing educators are challenged to include nursing theory in all levels of curricula when faced with many influences and requirements competing for course content, placement, and credit. Some of the essential influences and content, such as quality, safety, evidence-based practice, and research methods are important. However, the critical emphasis on theory and its relationship to practice and research must be preserved. This article addresses the influences that may threaten this relationship at the baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral levels of nursing education. Strategies are offered to ensure nurse educators continue to offer appropriate nursing theory content to advance both nursing science and practice.
International subprime crisis and recession: Emerging macroprudential, monetary, fiscal and global governance
Authors: O’Hara Anthony
Published: April 2011

This paper scrutinizes technical international policy reactions to the
subprime crisis and recession. Short-term policy responses present challenges
to the conservative policies of the 1980s-2000s, while long-term structures
and issues are likely to redirect governance significantly. Macroprudential
policy now includes systemic risk and debt problems arising from booms in the
cycle. Monetary policy considers asset price instability as well as
inflation. Fiscal policy in practice cannot ignore functional finance.
Alternative forms of global money and reducing international payment
instabilities are now a core element of policy. While there is still some
asymmetry in policy, international financial crises can be useful in
moderating ceremonial policy structures.
The Irish economy: Three strikes and you’re out?
Authors: Gurdgiev Constantin , Lucey Brian , Mac an , Roche-Kelly Lorcan
Published: April 2011

We examine the three interlinked Irish crises : the competitiveness, fiscal
and banking crises, showing how all three combined to lay a lethal trap for
Ireland. Starting from a point of economic balance, a series of poor
government decisions led to the country once dubbed the ?Celtic tiger? become
the second eurozone state after Greece to seek a bailout, with the EFSF/IMF
intervening in late 2010.
The scope for inflation targeting in Tunisia: Analytical and empirical approach
Authors: Chockri Adnen , Frihka Ibticem
Published: April 2011

The aim of our work is to identify the necessary conditions for successful
transition to the regime of inflation targeting in the case of Tunisia. In
this context, we analyze, first, the theoretical foundations of the policy
of inflation targeting. Then, we outline the prerequisites for adopting this
strategy in a country like Tunisia. Finally, based on SVAR models, we try to
evaluate the transmission channels of monetary policy and identify the
conditions for successful adoption of the regime of inflation targeting.
The crisis and after: There is no alternative?
Authors: Gür Han , Canpolat Naci , Özel Hüseyin
Published: April 2011

The present paper devises an account of the possibilities that the recent
crisis opens up for capitalism, which dwells upon its history. The paper
takes three propositions as its starting point: First, capitalism, which must
solve the problem of coordination of the decisions of different agents in
changing environment, is prone to periodic and structural crises because of
its very institutional structure. Second, thus, crises should be seen as
signs that indicate that economic and social institutional matrix is at
fault, which requires new ?solutions?. Third, an appropriate account of
capitalism must also take into account that crises usually require
transformation almost the entire economic and socio-political institutional
structure of the system. Having said this, we try to address briefly to
possible and likely transformation.
In Search of Understandings: Knowledge of US History up to 1877 among Preservice Teachers at Three Universities
Authors: Lucey Thomas A. , Hatch Doug , Giannangelo Duane
Published: April 2011

This article concerns the results of an online survey that interpreted understandings of United States history, up to 1877, among early childhood, elementary, and middle level preservice teachers from three institutions in the United States. In literature, the authors observe associations between teaching methods and teacher conceptions of curricular content and that these relationships hold particular relevance to social studies (history) teaching. They conducted an online survey to interpret respondents' abilities to remember, speak about, and explain content for which they are responsible. The study found that respondents correctly answered less than one half of 25 multiple-choice questions. It also determined a modest percentage of responses to open-response items, with short comments provided.
Citizenship Education in Japan
Authors: Davies Ian , Mizuyama Mitsuharu , Thompson Gillian Hampden
Published: April 2011

Japan is experiencing a period of fundamental debate about – and significant modification of – education. The authors argue that it is important to gain further understanding about citizenship education from a range of contexts. Their reflections are based on a long period of collaborative work between colleagues in Japan and England which has included analyses of literature, projects funded by various bodies, including the Japanese government, and ongoing work in the field of political literacy. They provide some descriptive material concerning the historical background, key terms and concepts and aspects of policy and practice relevant to developing an understanding of citizenship education in Japan. They critique citizenship education in Japan, drawing attention to current struggles over the characterisation of this curriculum subject and how it is perceived to resonate throughout schools. They suggest that citizenship education is in a state of flux, and conclude that there is a need for further investigation if we are to gain a proper understanding of how citizenship education is – and could be – perceived and practised. They describe and discuss a recently established research and development project focusing on ‘public discourse’ through which this further clarification could, in part, be achieved.
Accuracy of the Neuropad Test for the Diagnosis of Distal Symmetric Polyneuropathy in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Papanas Nikolaos , Paschos Paschalis , Papazoglou Dimitrios , Papatheodorou Konstantinos , Paletas Konstantinos , Maltezos Efstratios , Tsapas Apostolos
Published: April 2011

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the accuracy of Neuropad for the diagnosis and staging of distal symmetric polyneuropathy (DPN) across different stages of neuropathy, using multiple-level likelihood ratios (LRs) to interpret the time necessary to complete the color change of the test.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional, cohort-type diagnostic accuracy study in 251 consecutive adult type 2 diabetic patients with no peripheral arterial disease or other potential causes of neuropathy, who were recruited between January 2005 and December 2008 from the diabetes outpatient clinics in Alexandroupolis Hospital, Greece. Patients were tested for DPN by means of the neuropathy disability score (NDS) and Neuropad. Multiple-level LRs for time to complete color change were calculated across different stages of neuropathy.

RESULTS

The areas under the curve for the diagnosis of any (NDS of ≥3), at least moderate (NDS of ≥6), or severe (NDS of ≥9) DPN were 0.91, 0.96, and 0.97, respectively. The calculation of multiple-level LRs showed that time to complete color change <360 s suggested the absence of neuropathy. Values between 360 and 1,000 s were indicative of mild neuropathy. Finally, values between 1,000 and 1,200 or >1,200 s were strongly suggestive of moderate or severe DPN, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Neuropad could be used as a triage test for the diagnosis and staging of DPN in patients with type 2 diabetes, prompting referral to specialized care setting.
Trends in the Risk for Coronary Heart Disease Among Adults With Diagnosed Diabetes in the U.S.
Authors: Ford Earl S.
Published: April 2011

OBJECTIVE

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a major cause of mortality among people with diabetes. The objective of this study was to examine the trend in an estimated 10-year risk for developing CHD among adults with diagnosed diabetes in the U.S.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Data from 1,977 adults, aged 30–79 years, with diagnosed diabetes who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 1999–2000 to 2007–2008 were used. Estimated risk was calculated using risk prediction algorithms from the UK Prospective Diabetes Study (UKPDS), the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities study, and the Framingham Heart Study.

RESULTS

Significant improvements in mean HbA1c concentrations, systolic blood pressure, and the ratio of total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol occurred. No significant linear trend for current smoking status was observed. The estimated UKPDS 10-year risk for CHD was 21.1% in 1999–2000 and 16.4% in 2007–2008 (Plinear trend < 0.001). The risk decreased significantly among men, women, whites, African Americans, and Mexican Americans.

CONCLUSIONS

The estimated 10-year risk for CHD among adults with diabetes has improved significantly from 1999–2000 to 2007–2008. Sustained efforts in improving risk factors should further benefit the cardiovascular health of people with diabetes.
Exposure to silver nanoparticles induces oxidative stress and memory deficits in laboratory rats
Authors: Hritcu Lucian , Stefan Marius , Ursu Laura , Neagu Anca , Mihasan Marius , Tartau Liliana , Melnig Viorel
Published: April 2011

Currently most of the applications of silver nanoparticles are in antibacterial/antifungal agents in medicine and biotechnology, textile engineering, water treatment and silver-based consumer products. However, the effects of silver nanoparticles on human body, especially on the central nervous system, are still unclear. To study the mechanisms underlying the effects of silverpoly(amidehydroxyurethane) coated silver nanoparticles on brain functions, we subjected male Wistar rats to chronic treatments with silver-29 nm (5 µg/kg and 10 µg/kg) and silver-23 nm (5 µg/kg and 10 µg/kg) nanoparticles for 7 days. We evaluated the effects of nanoparticles size and structure on rat memory function. Memory processes were studied by means of two cognitive tasks (Y-maze and radial arm-maze). Exposure to silver nanoparticles significantly decreased spontaneous alternation in the Y-maze task and working memory functions in the radial arm-maze task, suggesting that nanoparticles have effects on short-term memory. We found no effects on long-term memory, which we assessed by reference memory trials in the radial arm-maze task. We found that memory deficits were significantly correlated with oxidative stress generation only in the Y-maze task. Our findings suggest that silver nanoparticles may induce an impairment of memory functions by increasing oxidative stress in the brain. The use of silver nanoparticles for medical purposes therefore requires careful consideration, particularlyif it involves exposure of the human brain.
Effects of substrate acidity and UV-B radiation on photosynthesis of radishes
Authors: Januskaitiene Irena
Published: April 2011

The aim of this study was to assess the combined effect of substrate acidity (pH 4.8; pH 3.8) and 1 kJm−2d−1 UV-B radiation on photosynthesis and growth of radishes (Raphanus sativus L.). Radishes were sown in a neutral pH 6.5 peat substrate. When the second true leaf unfolded, the growth substrate was acidified using different concentration of H2SO4 and exposed to UV-B radiation for a period of ten days. Gas exchange parameters were measured with the LI-6400 portable photosynthesis system. Content of chlorophyll was evaluated spectrophotometrically. The results showed that the greatest inhibition of net photosynthesis was observed when radishes were grown in an acidified pH 3.8 substrate. The decrease of the photosynthesis of radish plants treated with both investigated factors (substrate acidity and UV-B) were lower compared to the effect of substrate acidity alone. UV-B radiation stimulated both enzymatic reactions of photosynthesis and water use efficiency of radish plants grown in acidified peat substrates. Also, investigated factors had higher impact on biomass of tuber than biomass of foliage.
The age of the subfossil trunk horizon in deposits of the Warta River valley (central Poland) based on 14C dating
Authors: Dzieduszyńska Danuta , Petera-Zganiacz Joanna , Krąpiec Marek
Published: April 2011

The present study focuses on investigations carried out in the Late Vistulian succession of the Warta River deposits (central Poland) in which a horizon of subfossil trees was excavated. Prelim-inary conclusions on time record and past environmental conditions of a forest existence determined from radiocarbon dating, pollen analyses and geological evidence appear promising with view of tree-ring chronologies.
Indigenous knowledge of herbal medicines in Bangladesh. 3. Treatement of skin diseases by tribal communities of the hill tracts districts
Authors: Rahman Mohammad Atiqur
Published: April 2011

Indigenous knowledge of herbal medicines for skin diseases like boils, eczema, scabies, septic abscess, itching and skin allergy, burns, chicken pox, warts and leucoderma, fungal and bacterial infections, including healing cuts and wounds has been documented by randomly interviewing Chakma, Marma and Tanchunga tribes of the Hill Tracts districts of Bangladesh since 1995. The plant parts of 60 species belonging to 40 families were known to be used. The plant specimens were collected, identified and preserved at the Herbarium of Chittagong University. An enumeration of these plants is presented along with their tribal names, categories of skin diseases, plant parts with preparation and route of administration. Key words: Indigenous knowledge; Herbal medicines; Skin diseases; Tribes; Bangladesh DOI: 10.3329/bjb.v39i2.7303 Bangladesh J. Bot. 39(2): 169-177, 2010 (December)
Comparative morphology and floral biology of three species of the genus of Nymphaea from Bangladesh
Authors: Begum Hosne Ara , Ghosal KK , Chattopadhyay TK
Published: April 2011

Morphology and floral biology of three species of the genus Nymphaea (Nymphaeaceae) of Bangladesh revealed that N. nouchali, N. pubescens and N. rubra, were normal, protogynous or normal and protogynous, respectively. N. pubescens was night bloomer and each flower opened for three consecutive nights where as N. rubra opened for four consecutive nights and N. nouchali for three consecutive days. The behavior of anther dehiscence and stigma appendages had significant role in pollination. Excellent pollen germination and receptivity were observed in the exudate of stigma cup. Key words: Nymphaea; Comparative morphology; Floral biology DOI: 10.3329/bjb.v39i2.7478 Bangladesh J. Bot. 39(2): 179-183, 2010 (December)
Development of pollinium in Malaxis muscifera (Lindl.) Kuntze
Authors: Kant Ravi , Hossain MM
Published: April 2011

Anther primordium of Malaxis muscifera (Lindl.) Kuntze initiated as a homogenous mass of meristematic cells is surrounded by protoderm. Two thecae are oriented towards the labellum, each of them consisted of a mass of archesporial cells. The hypodermal layer of sporogenous cells divide periclinally to form an endothecial, a middle layer and a tapetum. Pollen mother cells formed different types of microspore tetrads. Each microspore divides mitotically resulting a generative and a vegetative cell. Degeneration of the sterile septum resulted four naked and clavate pollinia. Key words: Malaxis muscifera; Anther; Pollinium; Morphogenesis DOI: 10.3329/bjb.v39i2.7480 Bangladesh J. Bot. 39(2): 193-198, 2010 (December)
Quantitative karyotype analysis of Agave americana L. and A striata Zucc
Authors: Munira Serajum , Ud-Deen Md Mosleh , Kabir Golam
Published: April 2011

Karyotype analysis of Agave americana L. and A. striata Zucc revealed that both the species had 2n = 60 with differences in individual chromosome length, total chromatin length (TCL) and total frequency % (TF%) between the complements of their chromosomes. The identified chromosome pairs were Im, IISm, IIISm, IVSm, Vm, VISm, VIIISt, IXSm, XIISm, XVIISm, XVIIISm, XIXm, XXIm, XXIIm, XXIIIm, XXIVSt, XXVm, XXVISm, XXVIISm, XXIXSm and XXXm in A. americana and IIm, IIISt, IVSm, VIsm, VIISt, VIIISm, IXSm, XIIm, XIIISt, XIVSm, XVSm, XVISm, XVIISm, XIVSm, XXm, XXISm, XXIIISm, XXVm, XXVIISm and XXVIIIm in A. striata. The proposed standard karyotype were 1L1m + 9M8Sm+1St + 16S18m+7Sm+1St + 4S22Sm+1St for A. americana and 2L1m+1Sm + 9M7Sm+2St + 15S1 3m+11Sm+1St + 4S2 2m+2Sm for A. striata. Key words: Karyotype analysis; Agave americana; A. striata DOI: 10.3329/bjb.v39i2.7485 Bangladesh J. Bot. 39(2): 229-235, 2010 (December)
Effects of gamma ray on some molecular characteristics of in vitro regenerated Gerbera jamesonii Bolus
Authors: Akter Nazma , Sarker RH , Hoque MI
Published: April 2011

DOI: 10.3329/bjb.v39i2.7490Bangladesh J. Bot. 39(2): 207-214, 2010 (December)
Water quality parameters and incidence of fish diseases in some water bodies in Natore, Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain M Delwar , Hossain M Kabil , Rahman M Habibur
Published: April 2011

Monthly variations of the physicochemical parameters in some selected water bodies (12 Beels and 210 ponds) in Natore during July 2006 and June 2007 have been studied. The highest values for water temperature, alkalinity, ammonia, free CO2, DO, pH and total hardness in Beel waters were 31.5°C (May '07), 180ppm (January and February '07), 2.5ppm (September '06), 9.6ppm (April '07), 7.5ppm (January '07), 8.6 (December '06) and 190ppm (February '07), respectively and the lowest values were 15°C (February '07), 35ppm (October '06), 0.5ppm (December '06), 6.3ppm (January '07), 4.8ppm (April '07), 6.8 (September '06) and 50ppm (September '06), respectively. The highest and lowest values of these parameters in pond waters were 33°C (May '07), 200ppm (March'07), 2.3ppm (July '06), 9.3ppm (April '07), 7.5ppm (January '07), 8.6 (November '06) and 200ppm (February '07) respectively, and 17°C (December '06), 50ppm (October '06), 0.6ppm (December '06 and January '07), 6.4ppm (January '07), 5.0ppm (May '07), 6.2 (April '07) and 40ppm (September '06) respectively. Changing in water quality parameters resulted in a stress response in the fishes, making them more susceptible to parasitic attacks and diseases, many of them being fatal. Key words: Beels; ponds; water quality parameters; fish diseases DOI: 10.3329/jles.v2i2.7493 J. Life Earth Sci., Vol. 2(2) 27-30, 2007
Investigation on antimicrobial activities of the plant Swertia chirata Ham.
Authors: Sultana Mst Jesmin , Molla Md Tamzid Hossain , Alam MT , Ahmed Fazle Rabbi Shakil
Published: April 2011

Biological activities of fresh stem of the plant Swertia chirata Ham. (F. Gentianaceae) extracted in rectified spirit is reported here. The crude rectified spirit extract was fractionated by using standard chromatographic techniques on alumina, which gave six fractions (A, B, C, D, E & F). When subjected to column chromatographic analysis on neutral alumina, fraction D yielded a pure compound tentatively known as AJ-1 that have melting point of 178° C. AJ-1 was screened for its antibacterial activities against 12 pathogenic bacteria, 6 Gram positive and 6 Gram negative, by disc diffusion method at a concentration of 200 μg/disc. The results obtained were compared with those for a standard antibiotic Kanamycin. AJ-1 showed significant activity against Bacillus megaterium (11 mm), Bacillus subtilis (9 mm), Salmonella typhi-A (10 mm), Shigella flexeneriae (10 mm) and Klebsiella sp (11 mm) but a little activity against Staphylococcus aureus. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MIC) of AJ-1 determined against Bacillus megaterium and Salmonella typhi-A were 128 μg/ml and 128 μg/ml, respectively when tested in a nutrient broth medium. AJ-1 also showed significant activity against the brine shrimp (Artemia salina) nauplii (LC50 value of 9.34 μg/ml), in which the mortality rate increased with the increasing concentration of the compound, suggesting a positive correlation between brine shrimp toxicity and cytotoxicity. Key words: Biological activity; Swertia chirata; Gentianaceae; pathogenic bacteria DOI: 10.3329/jles.v2i2.7494 J. Life Earth Sci., Vol. 2(2) 31-34, 2007
Grain growth and yield of whea under different irrigation regimes
Authors: Haider SA , Alam MZ , Paul NK
Published: April 2011

A field experiment was carried out to study the influence of different irrigation regimes on the panicle and grain growth, relative growth rate of grain, grain abortion, yield and some yield components of four wheat varieties in two growing seasons. Irrigation regimes had significant effects on the aforesaid parameters and the varieties were found to be more efficient under well irrigated conditions. A drastic reduction in panicle and grain growth and yield and increase in grain abortion was noticed when the varieties were grown under rainfed condition. C 306 was found to be the most efficient to have higher values of panicle and grain growth, relative grain growth rate and yield under all the irrigation regimes in both the growing seasons. Key words: Wheat; irrigation; relative growth rate; grain abortion DOI: 10.3329/jles.v2i2.7495 J. Life Earth Sci., Vol. 2(2) 35-41, 2007
Interactive relations of gender, residence and social stratification with types of aggression
Authors: Rahman AKM Rezanur
Published: April 2011

Attempts were made to examine the interactive relations of gender, residence and social stratification with different types of aggressive behaviour. The independent variables were gender, residence and socio-economic status. Different types of the behaviour include physical, verbal, anger, hostile and indirect aggression. A total of 240 respondents between 13 and 16 years of age constituted the sample of the study. The Measure of Aggressive Behaviour (MAB) was used for data collection. The study utilized a 2 × 2 × 3 factorial design consisting of two levels of gender (male/female), two levels of residential background (urban/rural), and three levels of socio-economic status (high/middle/low). The results were computed on each dimension separately using t-tests. The findings revealed interactive relations of gender, residence and social stratification with different types of aggression. Key words: Aggression; antisocial behaviour; gang related violence; autism; attention deficit disorder DOI: 10.3329/jles.v2i2.7500 J. Life Earth Sci., Vol. 2(2) 67-74, 2007
Prevalence and etiology of dermatomycoses in Rajshahi, Bangladesh
Authors: Neela Farzana Ashrafi
Published: April 2011

Dearmatomycoses are very common infections caused mainly by dermatophytes. A total of 1186 patients ranging from 1-60 years of age were surveyed for dermatomycotic infections in Rajshahi, Bangladesh. Specimens for mycological investigations were confirmed by microscopic examinations in 817 cases and the causative agents were isolated and cultured in 70 positive cases. The highest prevalence of dermatomycosis was of Tinea corporis (63%) followed by T. pedies (15%), T. capitis (12%) and T. unguium (8%). Trichophyton and Microsporum were the major etiological agents followed by Epidermophyton. This study also showed that there is a great variation in the severity of different types of dermatomycoses at different months of the year. Key words: Dermatophytes; dermatomycoses; Tinea DOI: 10.3329/jles.v2i2.7501 J. Life Earth Sci., Vol. 2(2) 75-78, 2007
Les transformations du crédit en France au XIXe siècle
Authors: Hautcœur Pierre-Cyrille
Published: April 2011

Cet article présente les principales transformations de la monnaie et du crédit au XIX e siècle en France : développement de l’usage des billets de banque et des dépôts bancaires, apparition d’une variété d’institutions bancaires capables de fournir des services différenciés et complexes aux entreprises et aux épargnants, émergence de marchés boursiers sophistiqués. Ces évolutions sont analysées d’abord comme relevant d’une intégration de marchés de plus en plus vastes, en premier lieu à l’échelle nationale. Cette intégration résulte à la fois de la concurrence entre les agents financiers et de la création d’institutions privées ou publiques qui canalisent et organisent celle-ci. Ce processus est néanmoins fréquemment perturbé par les crises spéculatives récurrentes qui sont inséparables de l’innovation financière, et ce d’autant plus que la régulation de la finance reste assurée essentiellement dans l’intérêt de l’État et de la bourgeoisie rentière qui le contrôle de plus en plus.
« La panacée universelle, le crédit ! » (César Birotteau). Quelques exemples d'inscription narrative du crédit dans la littérature du premier XIXe siècle
Authors: Péraud Alexandre
Published: April 2011

Le premier XIX e siècle connaît une telle pénurie d’argent liquide que chacun recourt aux instruments du crédit pour investir ou subsister, mais également pour régler les échanges quotidiens. Cet endettement généralisé engendre une véritable obsession de la dette dont la littérature se fait largement écho. Qu’on considère les physiologies ou le roman, c’est toute la production littéraire qui est en quelque sorte fiduciarisée , le récit s’organisant non seulement autour de la représentation des dégâts du crédit, mais empruntant également ses motifs et structures aux schèmes fiduciaires. L’étude des modalités d’inscription narrative du crédit permet ainsi de mesurer les hésitations entre un traitement purement réifié ou, à l’inverse, une inscription profonde de ses logiques au cœur du récit. Objet mélodramatique chez Karr ou Dumas, le crédit devient chez Balzac un facteur de dynamique romanesque qui soumet l’argent aux complexes dialectiques du temps et du désir. Beaucoup plus qu’un simple expédient financier, le crédit devient une modalité morale et économique de relation aux autres et d’être au monde, et s’affirme comme un principe poétique.
Baudelaire et Liszt : le génie de la rhapsodie
Authors: Bohac Barbara
Published: April 2011

« Le Thyrse » et « Les Vocations » de Baudelaire sont relus à la lumière du livre de Liszt Des Bohémiens et de leur musique en Hongrie . Par l’évocation de Bohémiens ou le symbole du thyrse, le poète résume les caractéristiques de la musique tzigane mises en avant par Liszt : l’ivresse passionnée qu’elle exprime, sa fantaisie rebelle à toute loi, sa tension vers l’idéal, son mélange vibrant de volupté et de douleur. Le thyrse devient le symbole de l’héritage hongrois dont Liszt nourrit sa musique (notamment les Rhapsodies hongroises ), mais aussi le symbole de la fraternité spirituelle entre le musicien et le poète : tous deux défendent une esthétique alliant liberté et maîtrise lucide. Avec Le Spleen de Paris , Baudelaire à son tour apparaît comme le rhapsode de la modernité : il fait sien les motifs de cette modernité, choses vues (dans l’espace urbain) ou choses lues (chez un Liszt par exemple), et crée, avec Le Spleen de Paris , une épopée de la civilisation moderne, placée sous le signe de la fantaisie, de l’oxymore et de la volonté consciente.
L'histoire mondiale/globale, une jeunesse exubérante mais difficile
Authors: Grosser Pierre
Published: April 2011

Résumé L’histoire mondiale/globale est entrée récemment dans les débats historiographiques en France. Est-ce une nouvelle mode américaine, ou même un nouvel instrument de l’hégémonie américaine ou néolibérale ? Cet article explique pourquoi elle est un produit typique d’une Amérique multiculturelle, globalisée, marquée par la guerre froide et le monde post-guerre froide. Mais il existe d’autres traditions nationales d’histoire mondiale, et la recherche en histoire mondiale fonctionne comme un archipel transnational interconnecté. L’histoire mondiale est un champ prometteur, mais connaît nombre de faiblesses. La plupart des spécialistes de ce domaine en ont conscience, et craignent un retour de bâton nationaliste. En effet, l’histoire mondiale peut devenir un simple vernis culturel pour des élites globalisées, ou un terrain d’affrontement pour des nationalistes qui voudraient avoir accès au grand récit universel de l’histoire du monde.
La croisade des gosses
Authors: Sill Édouard
Published: April 2011

Résumé Durant la guerre d’Espagne, parmi les milliers de volontaires étrangers venus dans la péninsule, se trouvent plusieurs centaines d’adolescents. Ces très jeunes volontaires, français pour la plupart et ayant menti sur leur âge, sont alors considérés non comme de jeunes soldats mais comme des enfants, des « gosses ». Ils sont ainsi l’objet d’une attention particulière des adultes qui les distinguent des autres volontaires. Après avoir réussi, non sans mal, à rejoindre l’Espagne, ils doivent ensuite se dissimuler ou imposer franchement leur volonté de participer aux combats. Ainsi, leur statut juridique, à la fois contrainte et sauvegarde, se révèle une identité fluide et polymorphe qui les différencie des autres combattants volontaires étrangers. Leurs motivations, leurs parcours et les problèmes juridiques qu’ils soulèvent ou rencontrent forment un ensemble riche d’enseignements sur la guerre d’Espagne, l’engagement volontaire et la jeunesse du milieu des années 1930.
Chiêu hồi, un programme de pacification de la guerre du Vietnam (1963-1973)
Authors: Rapin Ami-Jacques
Published: April 2011

Résumé Lancé par le président Ngô Ðình Diệm en 1963 afin de susciter des défections dans les rangs việt cộng, le programme chiêu hồi fut mis en œuvre par le gouvernement de la république du Vietnam tout en étant soutenu et encadré par les Américains. Les statistiques relatives aux résultats obtenus indiquent que plus de deux cent mille transfuges se rallièrent au régime de Saigon de 1963 à 1973, non sans que le programme soit objet de critiques et de controverses. Si cette politique d’incitation à la défection n’eut qu’un faible impact sur les cadres supérieurs việt cộng, les sources attestent les problèmes qu’elle posa au Front national de libération du Sud-Vietnam et au parti communiste durant le conflit en tant que partie intégrante de l’entreprise de pacification.
Le mythe de la France revancharde dans l'historiographie allemande des années 1919-1937
Authors: Charrier Landry
Published: April 2011

Résumé L’article interroge la persistance de la culture de — guerre de l’Allemagne défaite à travers l’étude de l’idée de Revanche dans le discours de ses historiens entre 1919 et 1937. Cette réflexion a ceci d’intéressant qu’elle permet de tisser des continuités entre deux champs de recherches difficiles à penser conjointement : les guerres de 1914-1918 et de 1939-1945. La première partie montre comment le combat contre Versailles engendra un déplacement du centre de gravité de la culture de guerre allemande et un recentrage de celle-ci sur la France. La deuxième partie analyse les stratégies argumentatives élaborées par le national-libéral Hermann Oncken, l’un de ceux qui développa avec le plus de constance la thèse d’une France tout entière tournée vers l’annexion du Rhin
La manifestation à l'Étoile du 11 novembre 1940
Authors: Monchablon Alain
Published: April 2011

Résumé La manifestation patriotique des étudiants et lycéens parisiens le 11 novembre 1940 est davantage célébrée qu’étudiée. Les témoignages sont tardifs. Les archives françaises et allemandes permettent de renouveler l’étude. Dès avant le 11 novembre, les notes de police témoignent de l’esprit anti-allemand au sein de la population parisienne, en particulier dans la jeunesse scolarisée. Interdite par l’Occupant, la commémoration du 11 novembre à l’Étoile était cependant envisagée. Les archives montrent que la police parisienne et le rectorat étaient informés plusieurs jours avant le 11 novembre, ce qui infirme les témoignages ultérieurs selon lesquels la manifestation fut décidée au soir du 8 novembre par un petit groupe parmi lesquels François de Lescure militant communiste non connu alors comme tel. L’intervention violente de la troupe allemande n’était pas prévue, comme en témoignent les archives allemandes. L’étude montre également comment l’événement fut progressivement revendiqué et reconstruit par la mémoire communiste, tandis que se constituait plus tard une autre mémoire, captée par le gaullisme.
Le passé national-socialiste dans la société ouest-allemande entre 1958 et 1968
Authors: Camarade Hélène
Published: April 2011

Résumé Un changement de paradigme mémoriel se produit en République fédérale d’Allemagne entre 1958 et 1968. La société ouest-allemande sort progressivement de la phase d’amnésie et de refoulement qui touche le passé national-socialiste pour entamer un travail de mémoire. En s’appuyant sur les travaux novateurs de chercheurs allemands, cet article étudie les facteurs par lesquels ces évolutions s’amorcent, puis il reconstitue les jalons politiques, judiciaires, culturels, médiatiques, scolaires et scientifiques de cette confrontation au passé récent. Il met en lumière le rôle joué par la génération dite intermédiaire, constituée par ceux qui ont été enfants sous le Troisième Reich. Ces derniers font bouger les lignes sur le terrain de la mémoire dès la fin des années 1950, informant la génération d’après-guerre qui contribue à installer durablement ce débat dans la société. La question garde son actualité, car il est considéré que l’Allemagne des années 2000 est entrée dans un nouveau paradigme mémoriel.
L'unification économique de l'Allemagne en 1990
Authors: Zielinski Bernd
Published: April 2011

Résumé L’article analyse les controverses en matière de politique économique qui, au cours de l’année 1990, concernait la transformation de l’économie socialiste de la RDA en une économie de marché et son intégration dans l’espace économique de l’Allemagne unifiée. Il aborde notamment les modalités de l’union économique, monétaire et sociale du 1 er juillet 1990 qui a préparé l’unification politique du 3 octobre. Parmi les enjeux cruciaux figuraient la politique de privatisation de l’économie de la RDA par la Treuhandanstalt et les formes de financement des coûts de l’unification. Le positionnement des principales forces politiques ouest et est-allemandes par rapport à ces enjeux est aussi bien évoqué que celui des experts économiques ou des institutions comme la Bundesbank. Dans l’ensemble, la stratégie de transformation a pris la forme d’une « thérapie de choc » pour l’Allemagne de l’Est, marquée par un optimisme exagéré dans les forces d’autorégulation du marché et des résultats mitigés.
Stimulated Emission from Wide-Gap Semiconductors
Authors: Kuokstis Edmundas
Published: April 2011

Stimulated emission and optical gain problems are reviewed on the basis of analysis of highly photoexcited III-Nitride and ZnO wide-gap materials. Spontaneous and stimulated emission along with optical gain of these materials in UV region is analyzed. The possible mechanisms of inverted population in In-containing materials and ZnO semiconductors are discussed involving mechanisms of dense electron-hole plasma, carrier (exciton) localization, as well as various interaction processes in dense exciton gas.
Direct Laser Writing of Refractive Index Micro-Structures in Lithium Niobate
Authors: Mizeikis Vygantas , Purlys Vytautas , Inami Wataru , Kawata Yoshimasa
Published: April 2011

We report on micro-structuring of iron-doped lithium niobate using femtosecond direct laser writing (DLW) technique. Formation of extended, stable index modulation micro-structures, such as diffraction gratings and linear waveguides is achieved by translation of a focused femtosecond laser beam inside lithium niobate crystals. From diffraction efficiency of the recorded gratings refractive index modulation amplitude of n ~ 10-3 is estimated. It is demonstrated that the recorded structures can be optically erased and re-written.
Nanostructural Control of Pt Layer on Counter Electrode for Application to Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Murakami Kenji , Fujiwara Sho , Kobayashi Daisuke , Ishihara Hiroki , Shimomura Masaru
Published: April 2011

We report about the comparative study concerning the amount and the size of platinum layer prepared through a spray pyrolysis deposition (SPD) and an arc plasma deposition (APD) techniques to clarify the quantity of platinum for reducing the cost of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs). It is revealed that the SPD- and APD-prepared Pt layers have enough catalytic activity to reduce the redox electrolyte.