bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analytical considerations on the use of a fruit-specific and representative matrix in pesticide residue analysis by LC-ESI-MS/MS
Authors: Stachniuk Anna , Fornal Emilia
Published: April 2013

One of the quantification methods frequently applied to pesticide residue analysis in food by liquid chromatography — mass spectrometry (LC-MS) involves matrix-matched calibrations with a representative matrix used for all commodities belonging to one group. This approach, although very practical, is deemed to generate analytical errors. The effect of the application of a representative-matrix calibration curve on the pesticide quantification result was examined. Extractions of 56 pesticides from five soft fruits (strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, black currant and red currant) were carried out using QuEChERS method. Pesticide determinations were performed by LC-MS/MS in multiple reaction monitoring mode. Quantification difference functions and parameters were proposed and calculated. At the concentration of 0.05 mg kg−1 for ca. 90% of examined pesticides the quantification difference arising from the use of a representative matrix calibration curve (raspberries) instead of a specific fruit matrix calibration curve was below 20% for black and red currents, and below 30% and 35% in the case of strawberries and blackberries, respectively. The 25% difference limit was not exceeded for 51 pesticides in black and red currents, 46 pesticides in blackberries and 45 pesticides in strawberries. Quantification difference functions and parameters such as relative standard deviation of corrected process efficiencies were found to be helpful in data-driven decision-making on the applicability of a representative matrix; the former may be also used as a tool for data correction to ensure the reliability and accuracy of analyses.
Carbon nanotube-ionic liquid nanocomposite modified carbon-ceramic electrode for determination of dopamine in real samples
Authors: Majidi Mir , Baj Reza , Naseri Abdolhossein
Published: April 2013

Room temperature 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetraflouroborate ([BMIM][BF4]) ionic liquid was employed for dispersion of multi walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and the formation of nanocomposite on the surface of a carbon-ceramic electrode. The surface of the modified electrode was characterized using scanning electron microscopy and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The modified electrode exhibited excellent electrochemical activity to oxidation of dopamine (DA); whereas electro oxidation of ascorbic acid (AA) was not seen and electro oxidation of uric acid (UA) appeared at a more positive potential than DA. The multi walled carbon nanotube-ionic liquid nanocomposite modified carbon-ceramic electrode was used for the selective determination of DA in the presence of high levels of AA and UA using differential pulse voltammetry. The calibration curve for DA was linear in the range of 3.00 to 130 µM with the detection limit (S/N=3) of 0.87 µM. The present electrode was successfully applied to the determination of DA in some commercial pharmaceutical samples and human blood serum.
Erratum to: “Comparative studies of Pd, Ru, Ni, Cu/ZnAl2O4 catalysts for the water gas shift reaction”
Authors: Mierczynski Pawel , Maniukiewicz Waldemar , Maniecki Tomasz
Published: April 2013

The original version of the article was published in Cent. Eur. J. Chem. 11(6) (2013) pp. 912–919. Unfortunately, the original version of this article contains a mistake in the Acknowledgement section. It should be written as “Partially financed from grant number 0680/B/H03/2011/40 and gratefully acknowledged. Paweł Mierczyński is a participant of START Programme.”
Effect of BAU-Biofungicide and Plant Extracts on Seedling Vigour of Maize
Authors: Debnath M , Sultana A , Rashid AQMB
Published: April 2013

An experiment was conducted in Seed Pathology Center, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh to determine the efficacy of biocontrol means (BAU-Biofungicide, Garlic extract and Neem extract) and vigour index of seedling for controlling the seedborne fungal diseases of maize. In laboratory experiment, the prevalence of seed-borne fungi associated with maize cultivar cv. BARI Bhutta - 6 were investigated by blotter method. The identified fungi species were A. niger, A. flavus, Fusarium sp., P. oxalicum, C. lunata and R. stolonifer. The test materials were treated with BAU-Biofungicide @ 2.5% of seed weight, neem extract @ 1:2 w/v and 1:3 w/v and garlic extract @ 1:2 w/v and 1:3 w/v to control the pathogens. Significantly, the highest germination (87.%) and the lowest incidence of pathogen (4%) was recorded in BAU-Biofungicide treated seed The maize seeds treated by BAU- Biofungicide also show the higher vigour index (2856) followed by neem extract (1:2) treated seed (2621) after germination.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i2.14602 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(2): 59-61 2012
Pickle and Chutney Development from Fresh Hog Plum (Spondias dulcis)
Authors: Bhuiyan MHR
Published: April 2013

The experiment was conducted to develop pickle and chutney from fresh hog plum fruit. The pickle was made with 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% salt concentration. The chutneys were made with 25%, 30%, 35% and 40% sugar concentration. Among them, the best pickle and chutney was identified on the basis of overall acceptability. The study showed that the color, flavor, texture and overall acceptability of different pickles and the chutneys were different. The pickle (P15) made with 15% salt and the chutney (C40) made with 40% sugar concentration was best among others of the similar product. Higher concentration of sugar and salt gives higher acceptability for chutney and pickle, respectively. Among different changes in chemical composition, moisture and vitamin C concentration were prominent during preparation of pickle and chutney. The moisture content was 59.69% and 43.08% for pickle and chutney respectively which were nearly two third to half of the initial concentration of fresh hog plum fruit. The storage stability was studied for both the products and it is seen that chutney (4 month) was lower than storage stability of pickle (5 month).DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i2.14604 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(2): 67-72 2012
Combined Effects of Bradyrihizobial Strains, Municipal Solid Waste Compost and Fertilizers on Nodulation, N Content and Uptake of Soybean
Authors: Rahman MM , Sampa MSA
Published: April 2013

A field experiment was conducted at the Soil Science Field Laboratory of Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh during January to June 2010 to study the combined effects of Bradyrhizobium, municipal solid waste compost and fertilizers on nodulation, N-content and uptake of soybean. The soil was silty loam in texture having pH 6.94, organic matter 1.62%, total N 0.067%, available P 10.45 ppm, available S 12.00 ppm, exchangeable K 0.08 me/100 g soil and cation exchange capacity 15.00 me/100 g soil. There were eight treatments. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. Phosphorus, potassium and sulphur were applied as basal from TSP, MoP and gypsum respectively. Nitrogen as urea and magnesium as MgCl2 were used for the respective treatments. The seeds were inoculated with the selected bradyrhizobial strains. Compost was prepared from municipal solid waste collected from Mymensingh city. Data on nodulation were recorded at 40 and 60 DAS and the N contents in grain, stover and root were determined. Inoculation of seeds with bradyrhizobial strains and application of MSW compost and fertilizers significantly influenced the parameters studied. Both nodule number and weight irrespective of the treatments progressively increased with time up to 60 DAS. The grain and stover yields due to different treatments ranged from 0.80 t to 1.58 t ha-1 and 8.54 t to 10.75 t ha-1 Bradyrhizobium japonicum strain BAU-101 and application of compost @ 10 t ha-1DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i2.14799 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(2): 85-90 2012
Effect of Variety and Weed Management Practices on Yield and Yield Attributes of Wheat
Authors: Sultana MR , Alim MA , Hossain MB , Karmaker S , Islam MS
Published: April 2013

An experiment was conducted at Agronomy Field Laboratory of Rajshahi University to evaluate the effect of variety and weeding regime on yield and yield components of wheat. Four varieties viz. Prodip -V1, Gourab -V2, Shatabdi -V3, Bijoy -V4 and five weeding regime viz. a) No weeding -W0, b) Weed free -W1, c) One hand weeding at 20 DAS -W2, d) Two hand weeding (1st at 20 DAS and 2nd at 42 DAS) -W3 and e) Lintur 70 WG @ 250 g ha-1 -W4 were included as treatments in the experiment. The experiment was laid out in a Split-plot Design with three replications. The results revealed that Prodip produced the highest grain yield (5.33 t ha-1) followed by Gourab (4.85 t ha-1), while the lowest grain yield (3.98 t ha-1) was obtained from Shatabdi. The highest grain yield (5.09 t ha-1) was obtained in Weed free (W1) followed by W3 (Two hand weeding) (4.89 t ha-1) and the lowest grain yield (4.13 t ha-1) was obtained in no weeding treatment (W0). The highest grain yield (5.64 t ha-1) was obtained from the combination of Prodip and weed free treatment (V1W1) and the lowest (3.57 t ha-1) was obtained from the combination between Shatabdi and no weeding treatment (V4W0).DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i2.14800 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(2): 91-96 2012
Trend and Variability Analysis and Forecasting of Wind-Speed in Bangladesh
Authors: Syeda JA
Published: April 2013

An attempt was made to examine the trend and variability pattern for decadal, annual and seasonal (crop seasons) average prevailing wind-speed (APWS) for six divisional stations in Bangladesh namely Dhaka, Rajshahi, Khulna, Barisal, Sylhet and Chittagong. The monthly APWS (2009-2012) were forecasted using univariate Box-Jenkins modeling techniques on the basis of minimum root mean square forecasting error. The growth rates for annual and seasonal APWS were found to be negative with nonstationary but normal residual for all regions except Barisal and the Prekharif season for Khulna. The rates for Barisal were observed positive with normal and nonstationary residual. The significant positive growth rate for coefficient of variations (CV) of the annual APWS was experienced for Khulna (0.155*) and the less positive rate for Rajshahi (0.011) with nonstationary residual while for others it was established as negative. The findings support that the climate of this country is changing in terms of the APWS.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i2.14801 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(2): 97-107 2012
Trend and Variability Analysis and Forecasting of Sunshine-Hour in Bangladesh
Authors: Syeda JA , Nasser M
Published: April 2013

An attempt has been taken to investigate the trend and variability pattern for annual and seasonal (Three crop seasons) average sunshine-hours (ASSH) for six divisional stations of Bangladesh: Dhaka, Khulna, Rajshahi, Barisal, Sylhet and Chittagong. The monthly ASSH (2008-2011) are forecasted applying the univariate Box-Jenkins ARIMA (autoregressive integrated moving average) modelling technique on the basis of the minimum root mean square forecasting error. Several diagnostic techniques are used for detection of outlier and residuals stationarity and normality. The significant negative rates are observed for linear trend (LT) of Annual and Seasonal Average ASSH in all the six stations with only one minor positive rate for Prekharif season in Khulna. The findings support that the climate of Bangladesh is changing in terms of sunshine-hour which may have tremendous effects in the agricultural production.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i2.14802 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(2): 109-118 2012
Trend and Variability Analysis, and Forecasting of Maximum Temperature in Bangladesh
Authors: Syeda JA
Published: April 2013

An attempt is made to investigate the trend and variability for annual and seasonal (Three crop seasons) average maximum temperature (AMXT) for six divisional stations of Bangladesh: Dhaka, Rajshahi, Khulna, Barisal, Sylhet and Chittagong. The monthly AMXT (2009-2012) are forecasted applying univariate Box-Jenkins ARIMA (autoregressive integrated moving average) modeling techniques. The growth rates of annual AMXT are found positive in all the stations except Rajshahi (negative) while the rates of their coefficient of variations (CVs) are negative in all the stations except Khulna (negative). The rates of AMXT are positive during Kharif season but negative in Prekharif and Rabi seasons for Rajshahi and Khulna, positive during Kharif and Rabi season but negative in Prekharif season for Dhaka and Barisal and positive in all the three seasons for Sylhet and Chittagong. The findings support that the climate of this country is channging in terms of maximum temperature and this may have adverse effects on its agriculture.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i2.14803 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(2): 119-128 2012
Farmers Perception Regarding Climate Change and Crop Production, Especially for Wheat in Dinajpur District
Authors: Syeda JA , Nasser M
Published: April 2013

An attempt was made to depict the valuable experience of farmers about climate change, environment and agricultural production, particularly wheat by conducting an opinion survey among 50 years and above aged farmers and agricultural workers in selected mauzas of Dinajpur district. Three hundred thirteen (313) respondents were interviewed in the survey. All the respondents opined regarding climate change in Dinajpur district over time. All of them opined that crop land, crop cultivation and crop yield were affected due to climatic change and changing of climate might pose a big and devastating threat to the production of wheat. Besides, the three case studies were accomplished to explore new ideas about climate change and the behavior of nature and human culture. They had also similar types of experience about climate change.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i2.14804 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(2): 129-136 2012
Heavy Metals and Major Ionic Pollution Assessment in Waters of Midstream of the River Karatoa in Bangladesh
Authors: Zakir HM , Rahman M Moshfiqur , Rahman A , Ahmed I , Hossain MA
Published: April 2013

In a quantitative assessment of water collected from the midstream of Karatoa river in Bangladesh, 31 water samples were analyzed to assess heavy metals, major ionic constituents and suitability parameters for irrigation usage. The electrical conductivity of all collected samples were within the range of 450 to 1653 ?S cm-1 indicating medium to high salinity. Total dissolved solids ranged from 247 to 789 mg L-1 and the samples were rated as fresh water (<1000 mg L-1). The anion chemistry in the Karatoa river water was dominated by HCO3- and Cl-, which contributed 66 and 31%, respectively of the total anionic mass balance. On the other hand, the cation chemistry indicated that 8 samples showed dominance sequence as Ca > Mg > Na > K, 8 samples as Ca > K > Na > Mg, 7 samples as Ca > Mg > K > Na, 6 samples as Ca > Na > K > Mg and only 2 samples as Ca > K > Mg > Na. Among the studied heavy metals (Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, Pb, Cr and Ni), the most dominant metal was Fe and Mn. The concentration of Mn in 13 water samples exceeded the surface water quality standard (0.10 mg L-1) indicating Mn toxicity. Considering hardness, 6 water samples were graded as moderately hard while the rest 25 samples were graded as hard. As regards to permeability index, 65% of the water samples collected from the midstream of Karatoa river belongs to the unsuitable category.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i2.14806 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(2): 149-160 2012
Community Based Risk Assessment and Adaptation to Climate Change in Dharam Wetland under Sunamganj District
Authors: Bahauddin KM , Uddin MH
Published: April 2013

This study presented community based framework to assess the risk and the adaptation practice as response to climate change and different disasters. The communitys experience suggested risks are shifting along with prolongation of hydro-meteorological events and its irregularity is threatening adaptation capacities as it is affecting the sensitivity and production of the ecosystem of the region. In this study, community identified flash flood, flood, wave erosion; river bank erosion and water pollution were as common hazards and risks of their life as well as community identified and assessed their seasonal calendar and livelihood activities, element at risk, problem matrix ranking/ priority, risk evaluation, causes of risks and their adaptation. In this viewpoint, some recommendations were suggested for community to adaptation, practices and conservation of wetland.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i2.14807 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(2): 161-166 2012
Prevalence of PPR of Goat and Their Response to Antibiotic Treatment at Mirzaganj Upazila of Patuakhali Distrtict
Authors: Islam MS , Khan MSI , Kader HA , Begum MR , Asgar MA
Published: April 2013

The study was conducted at Upazila Livestock Office from 1st January to 31th March, 2010 to observe the prevalence of PPR in goat at Mirzaganj upazila in Patuakhali District. A total of 183 goats were examined based on the clinical signs and gross pathological lesions of which 92 were PPR affected makes up 50.27%. After categorizing the animals according to their breed, age and vaccination history it was revealed that Black Bengal goats were more susceptible (54.93 %) than Jamunapari (31.38 %). The prevalence of PPR was maximum 63.33% at age category of 7-12 months, in compare with 44.68%, 41.87%, 45.45% at age category of ? 6 months, 13-18 months and ? 19 months respectively. Non-vaccinated goats were more susceptible (66.40%) to PPR infection than vaccinated goats (19.56%). Parental (I/M) Oxytetracycline was more effective (64%) than parental (I/M) Sulphadimidine (44%) along with symptomatic treatment. PPR causes higher mortality and heavy economic losses in every year which may be reduced substantially by proper vaccination and other managemental approaches.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i2.14811 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(2): 181-184 2012
Effect of Organic Farming on Nutrient Uptake and Quality of Potato
Authors: Islam MR , Nahar BS
Published: April 2013

The experiment was carried out at the Environmental Science Field Laboratory, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh during the period November 2004 to February 2005 to evaluate the effect of organic farming on soil and potato quality. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete Block Design with five treatment and three replications. The treatments and their combinations were cowdung, poultry manure, inorganic fertilizer, cowdung plus inorganic fertilizer and poultry manure plus inorganic fertilizer. The nutrient content of P, K, Ca, Mg, Zn of tuber and haulm, and starch and protein content in tuber were highest in cowdung treated potato and but N and S content of both tuber and haulm were highest in case of poultry manure. The uptake of P, K, Mg and S of both tuber and haulm in case of poultry manure but N and Zn uptake was highest in case of poultry manure plus inorganic fertilizer. Finally, calcium uptake was highest in cowdung in both cases of tuber and protean and starch contents were influenced by organic farming.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i2.14818 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(2): 219-224 2012
Metals and Histopathological Alterations in the Liver of Schizothorax niger, Heckel From The Dal Lake of Kashmir Valley
Authors: Yousuf R , Mir SH , Tanveer S , Darzi MM , Mir MS
Published: April 2013

The study was conducted to evaluate the metal induced abnormalities in the liver of Schizothorax niger from Dal Lake seasonally for a period of two years. The varied seasonal metal concentrations for copper (66.77 ± 3.12 to 81.68 ± 3.51 ppm), zinc (73.81 ± 2.52 to 97.84 ± 4.62 ppm), iron (204.92 ± 5.21 to 296.51 ± 4.37 ppm) and manganese (01.13 ± 0.02 to 08.30 ± 1.00 ppm) were observed during the entire period of study. The highest concentration of metals was observed in the summer seasons and the lowest concentrations in the winter seasons during the study period. Further, histochemical analysis demonstrated enormous amount of metals (Cu, Fe and Zn) in the liver of Schizothorax niger in summer seasons during the entire study period. The subsequent effects of metals, demonstrated by wet digestion-based Atomic Absorption Method and histochemical methods showed histological changes on the liver of Schizothorax niger. The liver showed disruption of the hepatic cords with congestion and degenerative changes in hepatocytes that varied from mild in winter seasons to severe vascular degeneration in summer season. From the present study it may be concluded that the metals in the environment are polluting the water bodies and their subsequent deleterious effects harm the aquatic fauna particularly the sensitive native fish, Schizothorax niger which is one of the reasons for its decline from the fresh water resources of the Kashmir Valley.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i2.14820 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(2): 231-237 2012
Perception of Environmental Education and Awareness Among Mass People: A Case Study of Tangail District
Authors: Mamun SA , Nessa A , Aktar M , Hossain MR , Saifullah ASM
Published: April 2013

At present environmental education is emerging across the globe although this is a quite new phenomenon in Bangladesh. The present study was attempted to know about the environmental education and awareness among the mass people of Tangail town. In order to conduct this research, a questionnaire survey was carried out and interview was undertaken among 100 respondents in Tangail District. This paper describes some findings to understand the status of environmental awareness among people of different age groups of Tangail district. Moreover, this paper enables to provide some suggestions to extend environmental education and awareness to make a decent and ethical life as well as to keep the environment sustainable.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i2.14828 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(2): 263-266 2012
Contributions of Agroforestry Practice Towards Reducing Poverty at Keshabpur Upazila of Jessore District  A Case Study
Authors: Islam MW , Islam MM , Sadath MN
Published: April 2013

The systematic agroforestry practice is being popular day by day in Jessore district of Bangladesh. Considering the situation, the present study aims to know the farmers attitude and perception about agroforestry practice and to find out the potentialities of agroforestry to reduce poverty at the study area viz., Keshabpur upazila of Jessore district. Mixed method by using semi-structured questionnaires was followed in the field survey. The results illustrated that the respondents preferred agricultural practice (average 58.45% of their total lands) as their major land use followed by homestead and agroforestry land uses (31.75%). Agroforestry was getting popularity as well as socially and ecologically acceptable at this area due to the diversified outcomes of this practice. The small land holders (possession >1 acre) were the most interested among the respondents to practice agroforestry. The less poor agroforestry farmers change of income was also higher than the poor farmers. The increased production and income facilitated the villagers to reduce their poverty to some extent and thus they had better access to their daily necessities which helped them to attain a minimal standard of living.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i2.14829 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(2): 267-274 2012
Physicochemical Evaluation of Ground and Surface Water of Mohanpur Upazila of Rajshahi District
Authors: Salam SMA , Mollah MA , Tasnuva A , Zaman MR
Published: April 2013

Surface and ground water samples of Mohanpur Upazila of Rajshahi district have been analyzed in order to check its quality especially for drinking, fish culture, irrigation and industrial purposes. The water supplies were analyzed for pH, temperature, electrical conductivity, chloride, hardness, alkalinity, manganese (Mn), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd) and arsenic (As). All water samples were tasteless at the time of collection. pH values for surface water were 7.72-8.61 and those of ground water were 6.87-710; Total hardness for surface water was 112-181 ppm and ground water was 224-400 ppm as CaCO3-; Electrical conductivity (EC) for surface water was 233-645 ?Scm-1 and that of ground water was 750-987?Scm-1. Total dissolved solids (TDS) for surface water were 161.1-451.9 ppm and ground water were 490.7-690.9 ppm. Chloride content for surface water was 81.79-131.78 ppm and ground water was 13.06-57.36 ppm; alkalinity for surface water was 398.21-539.73 ppm HCO3- and ground water was 373.81-495.80 ppm HCO3-; Nitrate for surface water and ground water was 2.10-5.20 ppm and 0.09-2.8 ppm respectively. Concentrations of Pb and As were within the permissible limit. Surface water was suitable for fish culture and agriculture purposes. However, a few water samples were found to be contaminated with Mn and Cd. It is concluded that the quality of ground water in the area is in general good for drinking, agriculture, industrial or domestic purposes.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i2.14830 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(2): 275-280 2012
Evaluation of Some Rapeseed Mutants Based on Morpho-Physiological, Biochemical and Yield Attributes
Authors: Uddin MA , Ullah MA , Sultana F , Rahman KM , Rahman MZ
Published: April 2013

An experiment was conducted at the field laboratory of Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture, Mymensingh, to investigate morpho-physiological characters, yield attributes and seed yield in seven advanced mustard mutants viz., RM 01,RM 02,RM 03,RM 04,RM 05,RM 10 and RM11along with a cultivar BINAsarisa-4.The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. High yielding genotypes showed superiority in leaf chlorophyll content, photosynthesis, total sugar content and nitrate reductase activity. RM 05 produced higher number of siliqua plant-¹ resulting higher seed yield. In contrast, the mutants RM 01 and RM 10 produced the lower number of siliqua plant-¹ and also showed the lower seed yield with being the lowest in RM01.Among the mutants/cultivars, RM 05 produced the highest seed yield due to morpho-physiological superiority than the others.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i2.14831 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(2): 281-285 2012
Progress and Prospect of Training on the Health and Quality of Seeds in Bangladesh
Authors: Rashid AQMB , Dey P , Sultana A
Published: April 2013

Training on seed health was first initiated at the Seed Pathology Laboratory in the Department of Plant Pathology, BAU in 1880s. Farmers Block Supervisors and Subject Matter Specialists of DAE, Scientific Officers from SCA and Seed Wing Officers of BADC received the training. A total of 51 training programmes were conducted during the year 1988-2012 where 1003 trainees have been trained. The durations of the training courses ranged from one day to three months depending on the category of trainees. From 2006 to 2010 SPC organized training of six batches for the Post Graduate Certificate courses based on Seed Technology integrated with Seed Pathology. Through training programmes the knowledge and skills of the trainees were evaluated and found eventually changing their attitudes as regards to the health and quality of crop seeds.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i2.14835 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(2): 307-313 2012
Contribution of Farming Enterprises of the Small Farmers towards Household Food Security
Authors: Kobir H , Rahman MZ , Islam MS , Sultana N , Al-Musa MAA
Published: April 2013

The study was to determine the contribution of farming enterprises of small farmers towards household food security and explore relationship with their selected characteristics. Besides, attempts were also made to ascertain the problems faced by the small farmers in achieving household food security. The highest proportion (57%) of the small farmers was in medium while 27% of them were in low category in achieving household food security. Only 44.78% of annual dietary needs of the family were fulfilled from the farming enterprises of the small farmers and more than half of the requirements remained unsatisfied. Among the four sectors of farming enterprises, the highest proportion (41.70%) was contributed by crops alone. Among ten characteristics of the small farmers, farm size and annual family income were positively correlated but family size, annual dietary needs of the family and practiced cropping intensity showed negative relationship with the contribution of farming enterprises towards household food security. The rest characteristics viz. age, education, credit received daily time allocation in farm works and exposure to farming information of the respondents showed insignificant correlation with their achievement of contribution of their farming enterprises towards the household food security. The major problems faced by the small farmers in achieving household food security were inadequate land for farming, inadequate training facilities, lack of contact with communication media, insufficient credit and lack of knowledge of different aspects of improved farming enterprises.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i2.14837 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(2): 323-328 2012
Status of Heavy Metal Contaminations of Lake Water of Dhaka Metropolitan City
Authors: Mokaddes MAA , Nahar BS , Baten MA
Published: April 2013

A study was conducted to evaluate level of water pollution and its influence on heavy metal contaminations of lake water of Dhaka metropolitan city. The water samples were collected from lakes of Dhaka metropolitan city during February to March, 2008. The chemical analysis of water samples included pH, EC, As, Cu, Mn, 'ln. Pb and Cd. Analysis of lake water samples was done at the Central Laboratory of Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh. The concentrations of heavy metal of lake water were recorded as: in case of pH = 6.95, in case of EC = 22.44 (?scm-1), in case of Cu = 0.018 ppm, in case of Zn = 0.274 ppm, in case of Mn = 0.084 ppm, in case of As = 0.002 ppb, in case of Pb = 0.002 ppm and in case of Cd = 0.044 ppm. The pH value of lakes water range from 5.34 to 7.68, an indication of slightly acidic to alkaline in nature. The average EC value for lakes water ranged from 17.61 to 34.61 ?Scm-1 where EC value varied from 14.24 to 33.48 ?Scm-1 in the lake water.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i2.14841 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(2): 345-348 2012
Chinese in the grammars of Tagalog and Japanese of the Franciscan Melchor Oyanguren de Santa Inés (1688-1747)
Authors: Klöter Henning , Zwartjes O.
Published: April 2013

Cet article a pour objectif de décrire quelques traits de la grammatisation des langues indigènes au début de l’Amérique latine. L’attention a été centrée non seulement sur les traités écrits par les missionnaires, mais aussi sur un contexte plus large. La grammatisation fut influencée par trois facteurs principaux. Le premier est la croyance dans un langage mental, commun et identique pour toutes les races, source des langues particulières qui se sont développées pour la communication orale. On en trouve les prémices – avec des antécédents dans l’antiquité – chez Thomas d’Aquin, dont les idées philosophiques prédominaient en Espagne à cette époque. Le second facteur est l’opinion largement répandue selon laquelle le latin est un langage logique jouissant d’un haut degré de perfection parce qu’il reflète le langage mental mieux que les autres langues. L’idée que les langues classiques, plus anciennes, apparaissent comme plus naturelles et plus rationnelles a également eu un impact sur l’institution des langues indiennes d’Amérique. Le troisième facteur englobe des considérations politiques, sociales et culturelles : l’acquis éducatif des missionnaires, l’attitude de la couronne d’Espagne et de colonisateurs puissants ont aussi joué leur rôle. Les vues doctrinales, les analyses grammaticales des langues locales et l’assise épistémologique aident à éclairer des points obscurs tels que le type de traités admis par les autorités ecclésiastiques. Il s’agit de révéler la nature et les objectifs de ces premières grammaires dans leurs propres termes, en évitant tout ‘ présentisme’, et en expliquant pourquoi les missionnaires ne pouvaient pas composer cette sorte d’ouvrages que certains critiques des 19e et 20e s. auraient voulu qu’ils écrivent, alors que telle n’était pas leur préoccupation.
The Plastered Skulls and Other PPNB Finds from Yiftahel, Lower Galilee (Israel)
Authors: Milevski Ianir , Khalaily Hamoudi , Getzov Nimrod , Hershkovitz Israel
Published: April 2013

Two extended seasons of excavations were recently conducted at the site of Yiftahel (Khalet Khalladyiah) in the fringe of Beit Netofa valley, Lower Galilee. Four new areas (F, G, H and I) were opened in addition to the five areas excavated in the past. This note will present the highlights from the main occupational period at Yiftahel, i. e., the Mid-Late PPNB (8,000-7,000 BC). Large PPNB buildings, displaying rectilinear plan with mud-brick and/ or stone walls, were discovered in the recent seasons of excavations. All buildings have thick lime-plastered floors. Aside from plentiful lithic assemblages related to the “naviform” industry, rich botanical and faunal remains were found at the site. The most outstanding fi nds are related to the mortuary practices, including three modeled plastered skulls.
From Neolithic to Chalcolithic in the Southern Caucasus: Economy and Macrolithic Implements from Shulaveri-Shomu Sites of Kwemo-Kartli (Georgia)
Authors: Hamon Caroline
Published: April 2013

In Transcaucasia, the emergence of the first neolithic cultures can be dated to the middle of the 6th millennium BC. The Shulaveri-Shomu culture, which occupies the middle course of the Kura valley, is among the best known Neolithic culture of Transcaucasia. As for the subsistence economy, the presence of a wide range of grinding and abrading tools is mentioned, but no real study of their technological evolution and functional implications has yet been carried out. The present work aims at better defining the techniques of cereal processing and the exploitation of mineral and animal resources through the stone assemblages of four sites of the Kwemo-Kartli region in Georgia. The implication of macrolithic tools in the technical system of the Shulaveri-Shomu culture is also discussed in terms of relative chronology of the sites and comparison with other neolithic and chalcolithic cultures from Transcaucasia. Using the macrolithic implements, the question of the relationship between the Shulaveri-Shomu tepe culture and the southern regions of the Near and Middle East is discussed.
Resource Exploitation of the Upper Khabur Basin (NE Syria) during the 3rd Millennium BC
Authors: Deckers Katleen , Riehl Simone
Published: April 2013

A dataset of 908 tells, 1823 radial lines and streams in the Upper Khabur Basin was produced by digitizing CORONA satellite images. Several analyses are applied to this database in order to understand the hydrological and agrarian contexts of tells that were occupied mainly in the mid 3rd millennium BC. A strong alignment of tell sites along wadis is observed, which may explain the building of settlements upwards. The analysis of radial lines with exaggerated 3D-SRTM data indicates that, in most cases, they are unlikely to have been used as an irrigation system, but rather may be hollow ways with sometimes fade-out points delineating the end of cultivation zones. This is supported by a comparison between cultivation zones based on hollow ways and calculations of the necessary amount of land starting from the tell sizes. Resource exploitation calculations indicate that the area was not overexploited during the mid 3rd millennium BC and that tribute ca 2300 BC may have been a reason for land overexploitation, perhaps playing a role in settlement disruptions between 2200 and 1900 BC.
Cytotype coexistence leads to triploid hybrid production in a diploid–tetraploid contact zone of Chamerion angustifolium (Onagraceae)
Authors: Sabara Holly A. , Kron Paul , Husband Brian C.
Published: April 2013

• Premise of the study: Polyploids are often geographically segregated from their diploid progenitors, but the extent of sympatry and the consequences for reproductive isolation and coexistence are rarely quantified.

• Methods: In this study, we document the distribution and co‐occurrence of diploid and tetraploid Chamerion angustifolium among 57 populations within the diploid–tetraploid contact zone in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Rates of hybrid mating in mixed‐ploidy populations were inferred from the frequency of triploid offspring in open‐pollinated seed families.

• Key results: Twenty‐three of 57 populations sampled contained a single cytotype; 20 (87%) were tetraploid and three (13%) were diploid. Thirty‐four populations (60%) contained multiple ploidies. Diploid and tetraploid plants occurred in all mixed‐ploidy populations; triploids occurred in 13 populations and averaged 1.4% of plants per population. The proportion of tetraploids in a population was negatively related to elevation (partial regression: F = 27.2, P <0.0001) and latitude (partial regression: F = 17.4, P < 0.0001). Triploids were detected in seed from all eight mixed‐ploidy populations sampled ( = 3.7% of seed per population), comprising 7% of that expected with random mating (G = 2589.2, df = 1, P <0.0001, n = 2628), and were more often produced by diploid maternal parents than tetraploid parents.

• Conclusions: Our results indicate that tetraploids regularly coexist with diploids in the contact zone and that this coexistence is likely promoted by both strong reproductive isolation and asymmetric intercytotype mating between diploid and tetraploid C. angustifolium.
A versatile and efficient approach for the synthesis of chiral 1,3-nitroamines and 1,3-diamines via conjugate addition to new (S,E)-γ-aminated nitroalkenes derived from L-α-amino acids
Authors: Pereira Vera Lúcia Patrocinio , Moura André Luiz da Silva , Vieira Daniel Pais Pires , de Carvalho Leandro Lara , Torres Eliz Regina Bueno , Costa Jeronimo da Silva
Published: April 2013

New chiral (S,E)-γ-N,N-dibenzylated nitroalkenes 2a–c were synthesized from natural L-(α)-amino acids in five steps with overall yields of 68–88%. The conjugate addition of hydride, methoxide, nitronate and azide nucleophiles to 2a–c led to the corresponding chiral 1,3-nitroamines in 74–90% yield. The conjugate addition of cyanide anion to 2a,b was followed by HNO2 elimination affording chiral aminated acrylonitriles (73–98%). On the other hand, the azide anion reacted with 2a, in acetonitrile, via a [3 + 2]-cycloaddition in which HNO2 was lost, providing the corresponding 1,2,3-triazole derivative. Direct reduction of 1,3-nitroamine derivatives 9a,b produced the corresponding 1,3-diamines in good yields.
Nuevas especies y citas ibéricas de Ctenobelba s. str. Balogh, 1943, y descripción de Ctenobelba (Aokibelba) n. subg. del este de Asia (Acari, Oribatida, Ctenobelbidae)
Authors: Subías L. S. , Shtanchaeva U. Y.
Published: April 2013

Se realizan una serie de consideraciones generales sobre el género Ctenobelba Balogh, 1943, y se describe un nuevo subgénero, Ctenobelba (Aokibelba) n. subg., para las especies asiáticas. Se describen además tres nuevas especies de la Península Ibérica: Ctenobelba (C.) pseudomahnerti n. sp., Ctenobelba (C.) parapulchellula n. sp. y Ctenobelba (C.) foveolata n. sp. Se citan también por primera vez para la Península Ibérica las especies: Ctenobelba (C.) brevipilosa Mahunka, 1964, Ctenobelba (C.) marcuzzii Mahunka, 1974 y Ctenobelba (C.) csiszarae Mahunka, 1977, y se ofrece una clave de identificación de las especies ibéricas del subgénero Ctenobelba s. str.
Cambios de asignación genérica en especies fósiles del este de Europa descritas como Bufo belogoricus Ratnikov, 1993, Bufo planus Ratnikov, 1993 y Bufo albus Ratnikov, 1993 (Amphibia, Anura, Bufonidae)
Authors: Ratnikov V. Yu
Published: April 2013

Se discute la atribución genérica de tres formas fósiles descritas como Bufo belogoricus Ratnikov, 1993, Bufo planus Ratnikov, 1993, y Bufo albus Ratnikov, 1993. El autor justifica las razones por las cuales las adscripciones genéricas originales no deberían cambiarse a Pseudepidalea, como recientemente se ha propuesto, sino mantenerse hasta que se descubra nueva evidencia más convincente.
SerpinB2 Is Critical to Th2 Immunity against Enteric Nematode Infection
Authors: Zhao Aiping , Yang Zhonghan , Sun Rex , Grinchuk Viktoryia , Netzel-Arnett Sarah , Anglin Ian E. , Driesbaugh Kathryn Hodge , Notari Luigi , Bohl Jennifer A. , Madden Kathleen B. , Urban Joseph F. , Antalis Toni M. , Shea-Donohue Terez
Published: April 2013

SerpinB2, a member of the serine protease inhibitor family, is expressed by macrophages and is significantly upregulated by inflammation. Recent studies implicated a role for SerpinB2 in the control of Th1 and Th2 immune responses, but the mechanisms of these effects are unknown. In this study, we used mice deficient in SerpinB2 (SerpinB2−/−) to investigate its role in the host response to the enteric nematode, Heligmosomoides bakeri. Nematode infection induced a STAT6-dependent increase in intestinal SerpinB2 expression. The H. bakeri–induced upregulation of IL-4 and IL-13 expression was attenuated in SerpinB2−/− mice coincident with an impaired worm clearance. In addition, lack of SerpinB2 in mice resulted in a loss of the H. bakeri–induced smooth muscle hypercontractility and a significant delay in infection-induced increase in mucosal permeability. Th2 immunity is generally linked to a CCL2-mediated increase in the infiltration of macrophages that develop into the alternatively activated phenotype (M2). In H. bakeri–infected SerpinB2−/− mice, there was an impaired infiltration and alternative activation of macrophages accompanied by a decrease in the intestinal CCL2 expression. Studies in macrophages isolated from SerpinB2−/− mice showed a reduced CCL2 expression, but normal M2 development, in response to stimulation of Th2 cytokines. These data demonstrate that the immune regulation of SerpinB2 expression plays a critical role in the development of Th2-mediated protective immunity against nematode infection by a mechanism involving CCL2 production and macrophage infiltration.
OX40L/Jagged1 Cosignaling by GM-CSF–Induced Bone Marrow-Derived Dendritic Cells Is Required for the Expansion of Functional Regulatory T Cells
Authors: Gopisetty Anupama , Bhattacharya Palash , Haddad Christine , Bruno Joseph C. , Vasu Chenthamarakshan , Miele Lucio , Prabhakar Bellur S.
Published: April 2013

Earlier, we had demonstrated that treatment with low dose of GM-CSF can prevent the development of experimental autoimmune thyroiditis (EAT), experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis, and type 1 diabetes, and could also reverse ongoing EAT and experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis. The protective effect was mediated through the induction of tolerogenic CD11C+CD8α− dendritic cells (DCs) and consequent expansion of Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs). Subsequently, we showed that GM-CSF acted specifically on bone marrow precursors and facilitated their differentiation into tolerogenic dendritic cells (DCs; GM-CSF–induced bone marrow-derived DCs [GM-BMDCs]), which directed Treg expansion in a contact-dependent manner. This novel mechanism of Treg expansion was independent of TCR-mediated signaling but required exogenous IL-2 and cosignaling from DC-bound OX40L. In this study, we observed that OX40L-mediated signaling by GM-BMDCs, although necessary, was not sufficient for Treg expansion and required signaling by Jagged1. Concurrent signaling induced by OX40L and Jagged1 via OX40 and Notch3 receptors expressed on Tregs was essential for the Treg expansion with sustained FoxP3 expression. Adoptive transfer of only OX40L+Jagged1+ BMDCs led to Treg expansion, increased production of IL-4 and IL-10, and suppression of EAT in the recipient mice. These results showed a critical role for OX40L- and Jagged1-induced cosignaling in GM-BMDC–induced Treg expansion.
Cord Factor and Peptidoglycan Recapitulate the Th17-Promoting Adjuvant Activity of Mycobacteria through Mincle/CARD9 Signaling and the Inflammasome
Authors: Shenderov Kevin , Barber Daniel L. , Mayer-Barber Katrin D. , Gurcha Sudagar S. , Jankovic Dragana , Feng Carl G. , Oland Sandy , Hieny Sara , Caspar Pat , Yamasaki Sho , Lin Xin , Ting Jenny P. -Y. , Trinchieri Giorgio , Besra Gurdyal S. , Cerundolo Vincenzo , Sher Alan
Published: April 2013

Although adjuvants are critical vaccine components, their modes of action are poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms by which the heat-killed mycobacteria in CFA promote Th17 CD4+ T cell responses. We found that IL-17 secretion by CD4+ T cells following CFA immunization requires MyD88 and IL-1β/IL-1R signaling. Through measurement of Ag-specific responses after adoptive transfer of OTII cells, we confirmed that MyD88-dependent signaling controls Th17 differentiation rather than simply production of IL-17. Additional experiments showed that CFA-induced Th17 differentiation involves IL-1β processing by the inflammasome, as mice lacking caspase-1, ASC, or NLRP3 exhibit partially defective responses after immunization. Biochemical fractionation studies further revealed that peptidoglycan is the major component of heat-killed mycobacteria responsible for inflammasome activation. By assaying Il1b transcripts in the injection site skin of CFA-immunized mice, we found that signaling through the adaptor molecule caspase activation and recruitment domain 9 (CARD9) plays a major role in triggering pro–IL-1β expression. Moreover, we demonstrated that recognition of the mycobacterial glycolipid trehalose dimycolate (cord factor) by the C-type lectin receptor mincle partially explains this CARD9 requirement. Importantly, purified peptidoglycan and cord factor administered in mineral oil synergized to recapitulate the Th17-promoting activity of CFA, and, as expected, this response was diminished in caspase-1– and CARD9-deficient mice. Taken together, these findings suggest a general strategy for the rational design of Th17-skewing adjuvants by combining agonists of the CARD9 pathway with inflammasome activators.
TGF-β1 Limits the Onset of Innate Lung Inflammation by Promoting Mast Cell–Derived IL-6
Authors: Ganeshan Kirthana , Johnston Laura K. , Bryce Paul J.
Published: April 2013

TGF-β1 is an important suppressive mediator of inflammation, but it can also drive fibrosis and remodeling in the lung. In response to intratracheal LPS, neutrophils migrate into the lung, and TGF-β1 was suggested to protect against the ensuing injury. However, the mechanisms for this protective role remain unknown. Using a model of acute lung injury, we demonstrate that TGF-β1 decreases neutrophil numbers during the onset of injury. This was due to increased apoptosis rather than reduced migration. We demonstrate that TGF-β1 does not directly regulate neutrophil apoptosis but instead functions through IL-6 to promote neutrophil clearance. rIL-6 is sufficient to promote neutrophil apoptosis and reduce neutrophilia in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, while IL-6 increases rapidly following LPS-induced injury. Mast cells are a critical source of IL-6, because mast cell–deficient mice exhibit increased neutrophil numbers that are reduced by reconstitution with wild-type, but not IL-6−/−, mast cells. Although IL-6 diminishes neutrophilia in mast cell–deficient mice, TGF-β1 is ineffective, suggesting that these effects were mast cell dependent. Taken together, our findings establish a novel pathway through which TGF-β1, likely derived from resident regulatory T cells, controls the severity and magnitude of early innate inflammation by promoting IL-6 from mast cells.