bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential Antibacterial Activity of Bergenia purpurascens
Authors: Bajracharya Gan B , Maharjan Rokesh , Maharjan Bijaya L
Published: July 2012

Bergenia purpurascens, an important traditional medicinal plant used as Ayurveda, was collected at 3800 m from the Manaslu Conservation Area. In vitro evaluation of the crude extracts of the plant rhizomes using agar well diffusion assay against eight bacteria displayed potential antibacterial activity. The minimum inhibitory concentration values for Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella paratyphi, Salmonella typhi, Salmonella typhimurium, Shiegella flexneri and Staphylococcus aureus were determined. This study supports the traditional use of the plant material for the healing of wounds and antibiotic effect.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6494 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 157-162
Isolation, Identification and Antimicrobial Activity of a Withanolide [WS-1] from the Roots of Withania somnifera
Authors: Kharel Prakash , Manandhar Mangala D , Kalauni Surya K , Awale Suresh , Baral Janaki
Published: July 2012

Column chromatographic purification of the organic extract obtained from the roots of Withania somnifera yielded a biologically active withanolide compound WS-1 whose structure was established on the basis of spectroscopic evidences. Potent antibacterial activity was observed in this compound.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6497 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 179-186
Inter-annual and Decadal Variability of Sea Surface Temperature over Bay of Bengal
Authors: Rahman Md. Mizanur , Ferdousi Nazlee , Abdullah Md. Abubakar , Sato Yasuo , Kusunoki Shoji , Kitoh Akio
Published: July 2012

Sea surface temperature (SST) is one of the important oceanic parameters controlling the ocean climate. In view of this importance, an attempt was made in this study to examine the inter-annual and decadal variability of SST over the Bay of Bengal. The Bay is divided into three regions namely, i) South Bay, ii) Central Bay and iii) North Bay , during the period 1979-2006. The values of seasonal SST anomaly over these regions of Bay of Bengal are computed for the four meteorological seasons like, Winter (December-February), pre-monsoon (March-May), Monsoon (June-September) and post-monsoon (October-November). The variability of seasonal SST anomaly was examined using various statistical methods, on inter-annual and decadal time scale and the results are inter-compared. The SST anomaly over the above region of Bay of Bengal for all seasons showed an increasing trend except in the North Bay during the period 1979-2006, which showed almost neutral trend. The SST showed an increasing trend more particularly after 1992.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6516 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 296-303
One, Two and Three Photon Absorption in Atomic Hydrogen
Authors: Shrestha Nilam , Nakarmi Jeevan J
Published: July 2012

Non relativistic, semi-classical in dipole approximation, based on time dependent Schrodinger equation under the framework of perturbation theory, three different absorption processes in hydrogen atom are studied and calculated transition matrix element from an initial state to final state.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6520 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 324-329
An economic analysis of winter vegetables production in some selected areas of Narsingdi district
Authors: Akter S , Islam MS , Rahman MS
Published: July 2012

The present study was designed to assess the comparative profitability of selected winter vegetables: namely tomato, cauliflower and cabbage. In total, 90 farmers (30 each growing tomato, cauliflower and cabbage) were randomly selected from two villages under Shibpur Upazila in Narsingdi district. Both tabular and quantitative analyses were done to achieve the major objectives of the study. The major findings of the study revealed that production of all the selected vegetables were profitable. The per hectare gross cost of production of tomato, cauliflower and cabbage were Tk. 118000, 116977 and 120522, respectively and the corresponding gross returns were Tk. 217020, 210000 and 220000, respectively. The per hectare net returns of producing tomato, cauliflower and cabbage were Tk. 97000, 93023 and 99478, respectively. In other words, all the selected winter vegetables were highly profitable to the farmers. However, the farmers earned the highest profit from cabbage. The revenue type Cobb-Douglas production function analysis indicated that per hectare gross returns were significantly influenced by the use of human labour, tillage, seeds, fertilizers, irrigation and insecticides. These factors were directly or jointly responsible for influencing the per hectare gross returns of tomato, cauliflower and cabbage. The study reported some problems and constraints which are related to production and marketing of these vegetables. Based on the findings of the study, some recommendations were made to improve cultural and management practices for selected winter vegetables farming with a view to increase the income and employment opportunities of the farmers.   DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbau.v9i2.11036   J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 9(2): 241246, 2011
Estimation of evapotranspiration using a simulation model
Authors: Ali MH , Paul H , Haque MR
Published: July 2012

Practical methods for the accurate estimation of water requirement for irrigated agriculture are essential. Simulation  model is a useful tool to estimate water balance in the crop field. In this study, the BUDGET model was used to  evaluate its performance to simulate water balance in wheat field. The BUDGET model is composed of a set of  validated subroutines describing the various processes involved in water extraction by plant roots and soil water  movement in absence of a water table. The model was run to simulate evapotranspiration values with the actual  observed weather, crop and soil data for three years (2002-2005), obtained from experimental Station of Bangladesh  Institute of Nuclear Agricultural (BINA). The input data of model are separated into four stages and the value of Kc  and root depth are different for each stage. Evaluation of model performance is done with both graphical display and  statistical criteria. The simulated values fall close to 1:1 line, indicating better performance. The statistical parameters  such as standard deviation (SD), standard error (SE), coefficient of variation (CV) of simulated and actual  evapotranspiration values are found 21.07 and 29.23; 4.49 and 6.23; and 38.03 and 50.75, respectively. Both the  standard error and coefficient of variation for simulated values are found lower than the observed values indicating  stability of the model output. The coefficient of determination value (R2 =0.83) is high for this model, which indicates  good simulation performance. The relative error (RE) is 23.28 percent and model efficiency (EF) is 78.95 percent  which means that the simulation of actual evapotranspiration is satisfactory. The value of Index of agreement (IA) is  0.918 which indicates a very good performance of the model. The overall statistical parameters of simulation period  are in satisfactory level. Therefore, the BUDGET model is able to predict actual evapotranspiration for any level of  soil moisture with reasonable accuracy. The model can be used in planning, management and operation of an  irrigation project for judicious use of water with the limited inputs, especially suitable for countries where modeling of  crop yield is needed under water stress conditions.   DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbau.v9i2.11038   J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 9(2): 257266, 2011
Irrigation suitability of North Bengal Sugar Mills effluent and its impact on soil properties
Authors: Tabriz SS , Mojid MA , Wyseure GCL
Published: July 2012

The suitability of effluent water (hereafter called wastewater) from North Bengal Sugar Mill (NBSM) for irrigation and its impact on soil properties were evaluated. The quality parameters of wastewater from three different locations of the drainage canal and one freshwater sample from a hand tubewell of the NBSM complex were determined. The major physico-chemical and hydraulic properties of the wastewater affected and unaffected soils from West Baiddanathpur village (hereafter referred to as site 1) and East Baiddanathpur village (hereafter referred to as site 2) were determined. The electrical conductivity (EC) and pH of the wastewater were 0.78?1.05 dS m?1 and 6.6?6.95, respectively. The wastewater was richer than the freshwater in terms of nitrogen (15.8?24.7 mg l?1) and phosphorous (5.2?6.0 mg l?1) contents. The iron (0.37?0.49 mg l?1), manganese (0.3?0.9 mg l?1) and boron (0.43?0.51 mg l?1) concentrations were higher in the wastewater than in the freshwater. The biological oxygen demand (BOD) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) of the wastewater was 183?309 mg l?1 and 196?685 mg l?1, respectively. All these chemical constituents decreased with the flow path of the wastewater. Temperature of the wastewater at the head end of the disposal canal was 39.5oC that decreased to the ambient temperature at the downstream. The BOD, COD and temperature of the wastewater exceeded the threshold values for irrigation and, therefore, this water would not be suitable for irrigation without treatment. The wastewater elevated the EC and reduced the pH of soil. It however improved soil fertility by improving the phosphorous, potassium, sulphur and organic matter contents. It also elevated the porosity and reduced the bulk density of soil. The soil-water content at field capacity and the saturated hydraulic conductivity increased due to the effect of wastewater.   DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbau.v9i2.11042   J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 9(2): 283290, 2011
Development of orange flavour emulsion
Authors: Saifullah M , Aziz MG
Published: July 2012

The study was concerned with development of orange flavor emulsion by homogenizing method. Different gum  concentration and number of passes were used during emulsion formation. Three different concentration of Gum  Arabic (10%, 15% and 20%) and 4, 6 and 8 numbers of passes were used in the experiment. For each concentration  of gum 4, 6 and 8 numbers of passes were applied and graphically observed their stability kinetics and microscopic  view of particle distribution in emulsion system was observed for each sample through microscope. It was found that  at 15% gum concentration and 6 passes was best one and showed most stability than others.   DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbau.v9i2.11043   J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 9(2): 291296, 2011
Caryophyllaeid cestode infestations in Clarias batrachus (Linn., 1758) in Mymensingh region
Authors: Chhanda MS , Chandra KJ , Laboni NN
Published: July 2012

Investigation was conducted on seasonal infestations of caryophyllaeid cestodes in Clarias batrachus of Mymensingh from August 2010 to July 2011. Host fish were collected for examination from different sources of water bodies and fish markets of Mymensingh. Five different parasite species- Djombangia peretrans, Lytocestus indicus, L. birmanicus, L. parvulus and Bovienia serialis were recorded. Percent of   infestations was 85.75 with 7.37 parasites per infested host. The prevalence was (100%) in December, April, June, August and September and the lowest (33%) in July. The maximum mean intensity (25.94) was found in December and the minimum (1.5) in May. The highest prevalence was observed in winter  season and the lowest was in rainy season. Index of infection and abundance were the highest in winter and the lowest in rainy season.   DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbau.v9i2.11051   J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 9(2): 351357, 2011
The Ten-Step Vaginal Hysterectomy  A Newer and Better Approach
Authors: Bina I , Akhter D
Published: July 2012

Aims and Objectives: This study was undertaken to compare with the traditional Heaneys method of vaginal hysterectomy and the newer Ten-Step Vaginal Hysterectomy and to emphasize that this is a safe procedure with lesser blood loss, shorter operation time and shorter requirements of analgesia. Study Design: 110 Patients with non descent, first, second and third degree prolapsed uterus from 45 to 72 years of age were subjected to this study in Khalishpur Clinic. Those women were randomly selected. Among them 54 women had the traditional Heanys Methods of Vaginal Hysterectomy and 56 women had the Ten-Step Vaginal Hysterectomy (TSVH). The blood loss was measured by hemoglobin assessment before and 3 days after operation. Material and Methods: In Ten-Step Vaginal Hysterectomy the vaginal wall was incised by drop-like incision starting under the urethra, continuing laterally and down, encircling the cervix from behind and returning back to the starting point from the other side, then separation was done laterally to the side to the uterus. Bladder is detached from the uterus, and the posterior peritoneum is opened. The sacro-uterine ligaments and the paracervical ligaments are clamped together, cut and ligated in both sides. Next the uterine arteries are clamped, cut and ligated. Uterus is pulled down and two fingers are introduced behind the fundus to lift anterior peritoneum and opened under supervision. The round and ovarian ligaments and blood vessels are clamped together and ligated in both side. The peritoneum is left open, then reconstruction of the pelvic floor is done and the vaginal wall is closed continuously. Results: It was found that in comparison of traditional methods with the ten steps vaginal hysterectomy, there are lesser blood loss (400ml vs 80ml; P<0.05) with lower complications, shorter operation time (52.5min vs 30.3min; P<0.05), lesser pain and lesser requirements of analgesia (5.8 vs 3.9 days; P<0.05) and shorter period of convalescence. Hospital stay remains same for both groups. Conclusion: The Ten-Step Vaginal Hysterectomy is a better operation than traditional method of vaginal hysterectomy, Abdominal Hysterectomy and LAVH. At the same time this method is logical and easy to learn, to perform and to teach.   DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbcps.v30i2.11407   J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2012; 30: 71-77
Clinico-epidemiological Profile of Onychomycosis Attending in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Khondker L , Choudhury AM , Shah MOR , Shahidullah M , Khan MSI , Ahamed ARS
Published: July 2012

A cross sectional study, conducted in the department of  Dermatology and Venereology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib  Medical University (BSMMU) for duration of January 2009  to December 2010. Hundred twenty patients with  onychomycosis were selected by purposive type of nonprobability  sampling technique. Majority of the patients  61(150.8%) were in the age group of 21-30 years old. Mean  age of the patients were 32.8±14 years and most of the  patients were house wives 36(30.0%). Disfigurement  117(97.5%) and discomfort 89(74.2%) were more common  chief complaints of the patients. The mean duration of  disease was 20.4±15.4 months and nail fold changes were  associated with 37(30.8%) patients and more than a half  63(52.5%) of the patients had history of wet works.  Regarding the history of past illness, it was observed that  previous onychmycosis found 26(21.7%), nail trauma  26(21.7%) and immune suppression 6(5.0%). In  endocrinopathies, hypothyroidism was observed in 1(0.8%),  Diabetes Mellitus 6(5.0%) etc. Regarding the pattern of nail  changes, thickening of nail plate 88(73.3%), onycholysis  67(55.8%), subungunal hyperkeratosis 61(50.8%) were  more common changes. Paronychia was observed in 34  (28.3%) cases. In concomitant fungal infection, it was  observed that T. manuum in 6(5.0%), T. pedis 3(2.5%),  Interdigital intertrigo 2(1.7%) and T. cruris 1(0.8%). This  was a study on a limited number of cases. Future studies  must include economical support, then large sample size  could be ensured and study finding would be more reliable.  There is a great need of epidemiological studies also, with  sufficient follow-up, systematic reviews and meta-analyses  on this issue.   DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbcps.v30i2.11408   J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2012; 30: 78-84
Epidermal Inclusion Cyst of Male Breast Following Traumatic Implantation
Authors: Haque MM , Mamun MA , Rahman MA , Nesa Meherun , Badruddoza SM
Published: July 2012

Epidermal Inclusion cyst of male breast is a rare condition  as reported in the literatures.  We had a young male patient who presented with a recurrent  breast lump. This case had a number of conflicting  diagnostic movements before being confirmed by  histopathological examination of the excised lump to be  Epidermal Inclusion cyst. The patient was found to be  healthy at follow up after three months   DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbcps.v30i2.11411   J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2012; 30: 96-97
Quasitriangular Structure of Myhill–Nerode Bialgebras
Authors: Underwood Robert G.
Published: July 2012

In computer science the Myhill–Nerode Theorem states that a set L of words in a finite alphabet is accepted by a finite automaton if and only if the equivalence relation ∼L, defined as x ∼L y if and only if xz ∈ L exactly when yz ∈ L, ∀z, has finite index. The Myhill–Nerode Theorem can be generalized to an algebraic setting giving rise to a collection of bialgebras which we call Myhill–Nerode bialgebras. In this paper we investigate the quasitriangular structure of Myhill–Nerode bialgebras.
Electrochemical Based Biosensors
Authors: Liu Chung Chiun
Published: July 2012

This editorial summarizes the general approaches of the electrochemical based biosensors described in the manuscripts published in this Special Issue. Electrochemical based biosensors are scientifically and economically important for the detection and early diagnosis of many diseases, and they will be increasing used and developed in the coming years. The importance of the selection of recognition processes, fabrication techniques and biosensor materials will be introduced.
World Energy Balance Outlook and OPEC Production Capacity: Implications for Global Oil Security
Authors: Mirchi Ali , Hadian Saeed , Madani Kaveh , Rouhani Omid M. , Rouhani Azadeh M.
Published: July 2012

The imbalance between energy resource availability, demand, and production capacity, coupled with inherent economic and environmental uncertainties make strategic energy resources planning, management, and decision-making a challenging process. In this paper, a descriptive approach has been taken to synthesize the world’s energy portfolio and the global energy balance outlook in order to provide insights into the role of Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) in maintaining “stability” and “balance” of the world’s energy market. This synthesis illustrates that in the absence of stringent policies, i.e., if historical trends of the global energy production and consumption hold into the future, it is unlikely that non-conventional liquid fuels and renewable energy sources will play a dominant role in meeting global energy demand by 2030. This should be a source of major global concern as the world may be unprepared for an ultimate shift to other energy sources when the imminent peak oil production is reached. OPEC’s potential to impact the supply and price of oil could enable this organization to act as a facilitator or a barrier for energy transition policies, and to play a key role in the global energy security through cooperative or non-cooperative strategies. It is argued that, as the global energy portfolio becomes more balanced in the long run, OPEC may change its typical high oil price strategies to drive the market prices to lower equilibria, making alternative energy sources less competitive. Alternatively, OPEC can contribute to a cooperative portfolio management approach to help mitigate the gradually emerging energy crisis and global warming, facilitating a less turbulent energy transition path while there is time.
Bacterial Motility Measured by a Miniature Chamber for High-Pressure Microscopy
Authors: Nishiyama Masayoshi , Kojima Seiji
Published: July 2012

Hydrostatic pressure is one of the physical stimuli that characterize the environment of living matter. Many microorganisms thrive under high pressure and may even physically or geochemically require this extreme environmental condition. In contrast, application of pressure is detrimental to most life on Earth; especially to living organisms under ambient pressure conditions. To study the mechanism of how living things adapt to high-pressure conditions, it is necessary to monitor directly the organism of interest under various pressure conditions. Here, we report a miniature chamber for high-pressure microscopy. The chamber was equipped with a built-in separator, in which water pressure was properly transduced to that of the sample solution. The apparatus developed could apply pressure up to 150 MPa, and enabled us to acquire bright-field and epifluorescence images at various pressures and temperatures. We demonstrated that the application of pressure acted directly and reversibly on the swimming motility of Escherichia coli cells. The present technique should be applicable to a wide range of dynamic biological processes that depend on applied pressures.
Enhancing Oxidative Stability of Sunflower Oil during Convective and Microwave Heating Using Grape Seed Extract
Authors: Poiana Mariana-Atena
Published: July 2012

This study was performed to investigate the effectiveness of grape seed extract (GSE) compared to butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) on retarding lipid oxidation of sunflower oil subjected to convection and microwave heating up to 240 min under simulated frying conditions. The progress of lipid oxidation was assessed in terms of peroxide value (PV), p-anisidine value (p-AV), conjugated dienes and trienes (CD, CT), inhibition of oil oxidation (IO) and TOTOX value. In addition, total phenolic content (TP) was evaluated in samples before and after heating in order to assess the changes in these compounds relative to the extent of lipid oxidation. The results of this study highlight that GSE showed a significantly inhibitory effect on lipid oxidation during both treatments, although to a different extent. This ability was dose-dependent; therefore, the extent of lipid oxidation was inversely related to GSE level. Convective heating, respective microwave exposure for 240 min of samples supplemented by GSE to a level of 1000 ppm, resulted in significant decreases of investigated indices relative to the control values as follows: PV (48%; 30%), p-AV (29%; 40%), CD (45%; 30%), CT (41%; 36%), TOTOX (35%; 37%). GSE to a level of 600–800 ppm inhibited the lipid oxidation in a similar manner to BHT. These results suggested that GSE can be used as a potential natural extract for improving oxidative stability of sunflower oil during thermal applications.
The Apoptotic Volume Decrease Is an Upstream Event of MAP Kinase Activation during Staurosporine-Induced Apoptosis in HeLa Cells
Authors: Hasegawa Yuichi , Shimizu Takahiro , Takahashi Nobuyuki , Okada Yasunobu
Published: July 2012

Persistent cell shrinkage, called apoptotic volume decrease (AVD), is a pivotal event of apoptosis. Activation of the volume-sensitive outwardly rectifying Cl− channel (VSOR) is involved in the AVD induction. On the other hand, activation of the MAP kinase (MAPK) cascade is also known to play a critical role in apoptosis. In the present study, we investigated the relationship between the AVD induction and the stress-responsive MAPK cascade activation during the apoptosis process induced by staurosporine (STS) in HeLa cells. STS was found to induce AVD within 2–5 min and phosphorylation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 MAPK after over 20–30 min. VSOR blockers suppressed not only STS-induced AVD but also phosphorylation of JNK and p38 as well as activation of caspase-3/7. Moreover, a p38 inhibitor, SB203580, and a JNK inhibitor, SP600125, failed to affect STS-induced AVD, whereas these compounds reduced STS-induced activation of caspase-3/7. Also, treatment with ASK1-specific siRNA suppressed STS-induced caspase-3/7 activation without affecting the AVD induction. Furthermore, sustained osmotic cell shrinkage per se was found to trigger phosphorylation of JNK and p38, caspase activation, and cell death. Thus, it is suggested that activation of p38 and JNK is a downstream event of AVD for the STS-induced apoptosis of HeLa cells.
Surface Preparation and Deposited Gate Oxides for Gallium Nitride Based Metal Oxide Semiconductor Devices
Authors: Long Rathnait D. , McIntyre Paul C.
Published: July 2012

The literature on polar Gallium Nitride (GaN) surfaces, surface treatments and gate dielectrics relevant to metal oxide semiconductor devices is reviewed. The significance of the GaN growth technique and growth parameters on the properties of GaN epilayers, the ability to modify GaN surface properties using in situ and ex situ processes and progress on the understanding and performance of GaN metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) devices are presented and discussed. Although a reasonably consistent picture is emerging from focused studies on issues covered in each of these topics, future research can achieve a better understanding of the critical oxide-semiconductor interface by probing the connections between these topics. The challenges in analyzing defect concentrations and energies in GaN MOS gate stacks are discussed. Promising gate dielectric deposition techniques such as atomic layer deposition, which is already accepted by the semiconductor industry for silicon CMOS device fabrication, coupled with more advanced physical and electrical characterization methods will likely accelerate the pace of learning required to develop future GaN-based MOS technology.
Maternal Zinc Intakes and Homeostatic Adjustments during Pregnancy and Lactation
Authors: Donangelo Carmen Marino , King Janet C.
Published: July 2012

Zinc plays critical roles during embryogenesis, fetal growth, and milk secretion, which increase the zinc need for pregnancy and lactation. Increased needs can be met by increasing the dietary zinc intake, along with making homeostatic adjustments in zinc utilization. Potential homeostatic adjustments include changes in circulating zinc, increased zinc absorption, decreased zinc losses, and changes in whole body zinc kinetics. Although severe zinc deficiency during pregnancy has devastating effects, systematic reviews and meta-analysis of the effect of maternal zinc supplementation on pregnancy outcomes have consistently shown a limited benefit. We hypothesize, therefore, that zinc homeostatic adjustments during pregnancy and lactation improve zinc utilization sufficiently to provide the increased zinc needs in these stages and, therefore, mitigate immediate detrimental effects due to a low zinc intake. The specific questions addressed are the following: How is zinc utilization altered during pregnancy and lactation? Are those homeostatic adjustments influenced by maternal zinc status, dietary zinc, or zinc supplementation? These questions are addressed by critically reviewing results from published human studies on zinc homeostasis during pregnancy and lactation carried out in different populations worldwide.
Benefits of Docosahexaenoic Acid, Folic Acid, Vitamin D and Iodine on Foetal and Infant Brain Development and Function Following Maternal Supplementation during Pregnancy and Lactation
Authors: Morse Nancy L.
Published: July 2012

Scientific literature is increasingly reporting on dietary deficiencies in many populations of some nutrients critical for foetal and infant brain development and function. Purpose: To highlight the potential benefits of maternal supplementation with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and other important complimentary nutrients, including vitamin D, folic acid and iodine during pregnancy and/or breast feeding for foetal and/or infant brain development and/or function. Methods: English language systematic reviews, meta-analyses, randomised controlled trials, cohort studies, cross-sectional and case-control studies were obtained through searches on MEDLINE and the Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials from January 2000 through to February 2012 and reference lists of retrieved articles. Reports were selected if they included benefits and harms of maternal supplementation of DHA, vitamin D, folic acid or iodine supplementation during pregnancy and/or lactation. Results: Maternal DHA intake during pregnancy and/or lactation can prolong high risk pregnancies, increase birth weight, head circumference and birth length, and can enhance visual acuity, hand and eye co-ordination, attention, problem solving and information processing. Vitamin D helps maintain pregnancy and promotes normal skeletal and brain development. Folic acid is necessary for normal foetal spine, brain and skull development. Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone production necessary for normal brain and nervous system development during gestation that impacts childhood function. Conclusion: Maternal supplementation within recommended safe intakes in populations with dietary deficiencies may prevent many brain and central nervous system malfunctions and even enhance brain development and function in their offspring.
Complete Nucleotide Sequence of Watermelon Chlorotic Stunt Virus Originating from Oman
Authors: Khan Akhtar J. , Akhtar Sohail , Briddon Rob W. , Ammara Um , Al-Matrooshi Abdulrahman M. , Mansoor Shahid
Published: July 2012

Watermelon chlorotic stunt virus (WmCSV) is a bipartite begomovirus (genus Begomovirus, family Geminiviridae) that causes economic losses to cucurbits, particularly watermelon, across the Middle East and North Africa. Recently squash (Cucurbita moschata) grown in an experimental field in Oman was found to display symptoms such as leaf curling, yellowing and stunting, typical of a begomovirus infection. Sequence analysis of the virus isolated from squash showed 97.6–99.9% nucleotide sequence identity to previously described WmCSV isolates for the DNA A component and 93–98% identity for the DNA B component. Agrobacterium-mediated inoculation to Nicotiana benthamiana resulted in the development of symptoms fifteen days post inoculation. This is the first bipartite begomovirus identified in Oman. Overall the Oman isolate showed the highest levels of sequence identity to a WmCSV isolate originating from Iran, which was confirmed by phylogenetic analysis. This suggests that WmCSV present in Oman has been introduced from Iran. The significance of this finding is discussed.
Temporomandibular joint injuries and ankylosis in the cat
Authors: Çetinkaya M. A.
Published: July 2012

Objective: To evaluate cause, location, treatment, and the clinical outcome of traumatic temporomandibular joint (TMJ) lesions and TMJ ankylosis in cats.

Methods: Cats with TMJ injuries were included in this study. Lesions were classified as luxations, fractures of the condylar process, and intra-articular temporal bone fractures. Signalment, cause and type of injuries, treatment methods, clinical outcome, complications and joint ankylosis were assessed and evaluated statistically.

Results: Temporomandibular joint lesions were observed in 82 of 161 cats with maxillofacial injuries. One hundred forty-nine TMJ lesions were determined in 112 joints. Falling was the most common cause and fractures of the condylar process were the most common types of injuries. Isolated TMJ injuries and caudal TMJ luxations were mainly caused by falling. Condylectomy was used in ankylosis, chronic luxation, reluxation and in two cases with multiple TMJ lesions. Ankylosis was observed in 10.97% of cases and was generally observed in fracture combinations of condylar process and mandibular fossa (Χ2 = 8.52; p <0.05). No significant relationship between age and development of ankylosis (Χ2 = 3.995; p >0.05) was found.

Conclusion: In contrast to previous studies, traumatic TMJ lesions were observed in a considerable amount of cats with maxillofacial injuries, and fractures of the condylar process were the most common type. Lesions caused by falling were mostly simple, whereas vehicular trauma caused more complicated lesions. Ankylosis did not appear as a rare condition. Any cat with TMJ injury is susceptible to the development of ankylosis.
Intraoperative Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography in Coats’ Disease
Authors: Henry Christopher R. , Berrocal Audina M. , Hess Ditte J. , Murray Timothy G.
Published: July 2012

The authors describe the spectral-domain optical coherence tomography findings in three patients undergoing examinations under anesthesia for treatment of Coats’ disease. Patients were treated using a multifaceted approach of intravitreal bevacizumab and indirect diode laser vascular ablation. A handheld, portable spectral-domain optical coherence tomography system was used as a novel and critical intraoperative tool in differentiating Coats’ disease from diffuse retinoblastoma and other simulating conditions and to monitor reductions in subretinal and intraretinal exudation during the course of treatment.
Estudio polínico de seis yacimientos del sureste español
Authors: López Pilar
Published: July 2012

Se presenta el estudio de seis análisis polínicos efectuados en yacimientos arqueológicos de las provincias de Almería y Murcia, abarcando un periodo comprendido entre el final del Pleistoceno y el Holoceno. Culturalmente se enmarcan entre el Solutrense (Cueva Ambrosio) y la Edad del Bronce (nivel III de la Cueva del Calor), si bien la mayoría corresponde al Calcolítico del Sureste. El paisaje en todo este tiempo no ha variado mucho, si bien puede observarse en el momento actual un aumento de la desertización, favorecida en gran parte por la acción del hombre sobre su medio. Las especies consideradas como «típicamente mediterráneas» están presentes desde el Pleistoceno.
Secuencia y crono-estratigrafía del solutrense cantábrico
Authors: De la Rasilla Vives Marco
Published: July 2012

Se propone el desarrollo de la secuencia solutrense y su cronología, así como las características generales de la industria.
Estudio microscópico y microanalítico de las soldaduras y otros procesos técnicos en la orfebrería prehistórica del Sur de la Península Ibérica
Authors: Perea Alicia
Published: July 2012

La complejidad de las técnicas de la filigrana y el granulado en la orfebrería Peninsular requiere un estudio microscópico y microanalítico para conocer su naturaleza. Este estudio se ha realizado mediante un microscopio electrónico de barrido (MEB) dotado con un sistema de microanálisis por dispersión de energías. La versatilidad de este equipo, así como su carácter no destructivo, facilitó la caracterización de las técnicas de soldadura en oro y un mejor conocimiento de otras técnicas metalúrgicas a lo largo de un periodo que abarca desde el Calcolítico hasta época prerromana. Sin embargo, la mayoría de la muestra pertenece al período Orientalizante e Ibérico, lo que ha permitido determinar los rasgos del taller de Cádiz y la identificación de otros dos talleres en Extremadura y Andalucía.
Esta investigación ha tenido como objetivo evitar extraer conclusiones a partir de una muestra excesivamente reducida y, por tanto, no representativa. Se han analizado algo más de 60 piezas procedentes de los Museos Arqueológicos de Sevilla, Cádiz y Nacional de Madrid.
Los «verracos» del valle del Amblés (Ávila): del análisis espacial a la interpretación socio-económica
Authors: Álvarez Sanchís Jesús R.
Published: July 2012

La escultura zoomorfa de la Meseta Occidental ha sido tradicionalmente estudiada en su dimensión tipológica y, en consecuencia, divorciada de la dinámica cultural que la produjo.
Este trabajo, que tiene su marco geográfico en el Valle del Amblés (Ávila), considera las manifestaciones zoomorfas como el exponente de un valor productivo —la ganadería—; y, mediante el análisis de su distribución espacial, propone la hipótesis de considerarlas hitos o delimitadores de recursos críticos —pastos—, cuya explotación sería organizada por las élites de las comunidades de la II Edad del Hierro que poblaban el valle.
Hacha de bronce procedente de Ledantes (Cantabria)
Authors: Serna González Maria Remedios
Published: July 2012

En la nota se estudia un hacha de talón y dos anillas, encontrada en Ledantes, Vega de Liébana (Cantabria).
Elementi di Icnografia mediterranea (Protonuraghi a camera naviforme)
Authors: Manca Demurtas Lucia , Demurtas Sebastiano
Published: July 2012

Definimos como protonuraghi con cámara «naviforme» aquellos nuraghi caracterizados por un corredor o espacio principal que, por ampliación de las paredes laterales, se transforma en cámara Esta presenta la parte posterior en forma de ábside semicircular y la cubierta en ojiva. El tipo, ya examinado por nosotros en el ámbito de un análisis general, aunque preliminar, sobre los protonuraghi, parece, por el momento, preludiar. en una propuesta de evolución arquitectónica, al nuraghe en tholos. Nuestro análisis no intenta fijar los puntos cronológicos en el interior del paso evolutivo aunque parece presumible que la creación y la difusión de este tipo de monumento pueda encuadrarse entre el Bronce antiguo y el Bronce medio teniendo en cuenta también los datos materiales adquiridos hasta ahora. Aunque sin infravalorar un posible aporte externo en la definición del tholos, parece igualmente evidente que la aceptación de tal modelo arquitectónico no pudo ser tan contrastante con la experiencia ya adquirida.

[it] Definiamo protonuraghi con camera «naviforme» quei nuraghi il cui elemento caratterizzante è il corridoio o spazio principale che per l'ampliamento delle pareti laterali si muta in camera. Essa presenta la parte posteriore in forma di abside semicircolare e la copertura ad ogiva . II tipo, da noi giii preso in esame nell'ambito di un'analisi generale, seppure preliminare, sui protonuraghi, sembrerebbe, al momento, preludere, in una proposta di evoluzione architettonica, al nuraghe a tholos. La nostra analisi esula dall'intento di fissare dei punti cronologici all'interno del passaggio evolutivo anche se appare presumibile che la creazione e la diffusione di questo tipo di monumento possa inquadrarsi tra il Bronzo antieo e il Bronzo medio tenendo conto anche dei dati materiali fin' ora acquisiti. Anche non sottovalutando un possibile apporto estemo nel definirsi della tholos, appare altrettanto evidente che l'accettazione di tale modulo architettonico non puó essere casi contrastante con le esperienze gia acquisite.
Apuntes sobre el tesoro del bronce final llamado de Valdeobispo
Authors: Enríquez Navascues Juan Javier
Published: July 2012

El tesorillo que se ha denominado de Valdeobispo (Cáceres, Extremadura) está constituido por un collar y cuatro brazaletes de oro macizo, cuya tipología lo relaciona con la orfebrería del Bronce final caracterizada por el influjo de las corrientes metalúrgicas atlánticas. La pieza más interesante es el collar, muy parecido a los de los tesoros de Berzocana y Baioes.
Las ánforas del Mediterráneo occidental en Andalucía
Authors: Rodero Riaza Alicia
Published: July 2012

El artículo se refiere al estudio de un grupo de ánforas cuyo origen puede situarse al oeste del Estrecho de Gibraltar (Andalucía y/o Marruecos), y con una cronología que abarca desde el siglo VI al II a. de C.
Apuntes ibéricos. Relaciones de la élite ibérica y el Mediterráneo en los siglos V y IV a. C.
Authors: Olmos Romera Ricardo
Published: July 2012

Se propone en esta nota una reflexión sobre los contactos de la aristocracia ibérica con el Mediterráneo en los siglos V y IV a. C., cuando se prefiguran los inicios del helenismo. Los ejemplos propuestos plantean relaciones con el Mediterráneo central y oriental en una época para la que generalmente se ha aceptado una occidentalización del comercio en la Península Ibérica. Se apunta el papel de los intermediarios, griegos y púnicos.
Recientes aportaciones a las religiones primitivas de la Hispania Antigua
Authors: Blázquez José M. , García-Gelabert M. Paz
Published: July 2012

En este trabajo tratamos y comentamos un cierto número de teónimos Vortiacio, Larrahi, Errensa, Lacubegi, Porconis, Peremusta, Selaslse, Bandua, Cossus, Nahia, Reva, Neito, Vaelico. Ninimedius Seddiagus, Erudinus, Evedutonius Barciaecus, Dulovius Tabalienus, Parameco. Basándonos en los téonimos y en sus estudios se hace una disquisición sobre la religión, la vida espiritual de las poblaciones celtas, del norte y celtíberas.
La Criptogamia: ciencia complemento de la Arqueología
Authors: López Sáez José Antonio , Diez Fernández Pedro Manuel , Sánchez Villapadierna José Juan
Published: July 2012

La importancia que la Criptogamia debe tener como fuente auxiliar de la Arqueología, queda de manifiesto por el numeroso número de datos que desde la Ecología y la Palinología nos facilitan las criptógamas. La relación entre éstas y el hombre ha sido puesta de manifiesto en distintas culturas, por lo que su utilización en estudios paleoambientales puede jugar un papel sumamente interesante para delimitar con mayor precisión el hábitat en que se desenvolvió el hombre.
Los conjuntos protoceltibéricos de la Meseta Oriental: ejemplos de la necrópolis de Carratiermes (Montejo de Tiermes, Soria)
Authors: Argente Oliver Jose Luis , Díaz Díaz Adelia , Bescos Corral Alberto , Alonso Lubias Antonio
Published: July 2012

La excavación de la necrópolis celtibérica de Carratiermes ha proporcionado hasta el presente importante información sobre este tipo de yacimientos; los resultados confirman en parte los datos establecidos hace años, mientras que, por otro lado, ofrecen nuevas perspectivas para el conocimiento de tales estaciones. Tal vez, la aportación más interesante y novedosa sea la que se refiere al momento protoceltibérico y la diferenciación en él de dos tipos distintos de ajuares funerarios.
Recombinatorial Biases and Convergent Recombination Determine Interindividual TCRβ Sharing in Murine Thymocytes
Authors: Li Hanjie , Ye Congting , Ji Guoli , Wu Xiaohui , Xiang Zhe , Li Yuanyue , Cao Yonghao , Liu Xiaolong , Douek Daniel C. , Price David A. , Han Jiahuai
Published: July 2012

Overlap of TCR repertoires among individuals provides the molecular basis for public T cell responses. By deep-sequencing the TCRβ repertoires of CD4+CD8+ thymocytes from three individual mice, we observed that a substantial degree of TCRβ overlap, comprising ∼10–15% of all unique amino acid sequences and ∼5–10% of all unique nucleotide sequences across any two individuals, is already present at this early stage of T cell development. The majority of TCRβ sharing between individual thymocyte repertoires could be attributed to the process of convergent recombination, with additional contributions likely arising from recombinatorial biases; the role of selection during intrathymic development was negligible. These results indicate that the process of TCR gene recombination is the major determinant of clonotype sharing between individuals.
The Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase SHP-1 Regulates Phagolysosome Biogenesis
Authors: Gómez Carolina P. , Tiemi Shio Marina , Duplay Pascale , Olivier Martin , Descoteaux Albert
Published: July 2012

The process of phagocytosis and phagosome maturation involves the recruitment of effector proteins that participate in phagosome formation and in the acidification and/or fusion with various endocytic vesicles. In the current study, we investigated the role of the Src homology region 2 domain-containing phosphatase 1 (SHP-1) in phagolysosome biogenesis. To this end, we used immortalized bone marrow macrophages derived from SHP-1–deficient motheaten mice and their wild-type littermates. We found that SHP-1 is recruited early and remains present on phagosomes for up to 4 h postphagocytosis. Using confocal immunofluorescence microscopy and Western blot analyses on purified phagosome extracts, we observed an impaired recruitment of lysosomal-associated membrane protein 1 in SHP-1–deficient macrophages. Moreover, Western blot analyses revealed that whereas the 51-kDa procathepsin D is recruited to phagosomes, it is not processed into the 46-kDa cathepsin D in the absence of SHP-1, suggesting a defect in acidification. Using the lysosomotropic agent LysoTracker as an indicator of phagosomal pH, we obtained evidence that in the absence of SHP-1, phagosome acidification was impaired. Taken together, these results are consistent with a role for SHP-1 in the regulation of signaling or membrane fusion events involved in phagolysosome biogenesis.
Inhibition of Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin Promotes Dendritic Cell Activation and Enhances Therapeutic Autologous Vaccination in Mice
Authors: Amiel Eyal , Everts Bart , Freitas Tori C. , King Irah L. , Curtis Jonathan D. , Pearce Erika L. , Pearce Edward J.
Published: July 2012

Dendritic cells (DCs) are potent inducers of T cell immunity, and autologous DC vaccination holds promise for the treatment of cancers and chronic infectious diseases. In practice, however, therapeutic vaccines of this type have had mixed success. In this article, we show that brief exposure to inhibitors of mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) in DCs during the period that they are responding to TLR agonists makes them particularly potent activators of naive CD8+ T cells and able to enhance control of B16 melanoma in a therapeutic autologous vaccination model in the mouse. The improved performance of DCs in which mTOR has been inhibited is correlated with an extended life span after activation and prolonged, increased expression of costimulatory molecules. Therapeutic autologous vaccination with DCs treated with TLR agonists plus the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin results in improved generation of Ag-specific CD8+ T cells in vivo and improved antitumor immunity compared with that observed with DCs treated with TLR agonists alone. These findings define mTOR as a molecular target for augmenting DC survival and activation, and document a novel pharmacologic approach for enhancing the efficacy of therapeutic autologous DC vaccination.
Activation-Induced Cytidine Deaminase-Initiated Off-Target DNA Breaks Are Detected and Resolved during S Phase
Authors: Hasham Muneer G. , Snow Kathy J. , Donghia Nina M. , Branca Jane A. , Lessard Mark D. , Stavnezer Janet , Shopland Lindsay S. , Mills Kevin D.
Published: July 2012

Activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID) initiates DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) in the IgH gene (Igh) to stimulate isotype class switch recombination (CSR), and widespread breaks in non-Igh (off-target) loci throughout the genome. Because the DSBs that initiate class switching occur during the G1 phase of the cell cycle, and are repaired via end joining, CSR is considered a predominantly G1 reaction. By contrast, AID-induced non-Igh DSBs are repaired by homologous recombination. Although little is known about the connection between the cell cycle and either induction or resolution of AID-mediated non-Igh DSBs, their repair by homologous recombination implicates post-G1 phases. Coordination of DNA breakage and repair during the cell cycle is critical to promote normal class switching and prevent genomic instability. To understand how AID-mediated events are regulated through the cell cycle, we have investigated G1-to-S control in AID-dependent genome-wide DSBs. We find that AID-mediated off-target DSBs, like those induced in the Igh locus, are generated during G1. These data suggest that AID-mediated DSBs can evade G1/S checkpoint activation and persist beyond G1, becoming resolved during S phase. Interestingly, DSB resolution during S phase can promote not only non-Igh break repair, but also Ig CSR. Our results reveal novel cell cycle dynamics in response to AID-initiated DSBs, and suggest that the regulation of the repair of these DSBs through the cell cycle may ensure proper class switching while preventing AID-induced genomic instability.