bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Medium Components on the Production of a Biosurfactant from Candida tropicalis Applied to the Removal of Hydrophobic Contaminants in Soil
Authors: Batista Ranielly M. , Rufino Raquel D. , Luna Juliana M. , de Souza José Edson G. , Sarubbo Leonie A.
Published: April 2010

The influence of medium constituents on the production of biosurfactants by Candida tropicalis cultivated in waste frying oil was investigated according to a fractional factorial 25‐1 design. The combined effect of the C/Ninorganic, C/Fe, C/Mg, and C/P ratios and yeast extract on surface tension reduction, biosurfactant yield, emulsification activity, and biomass were studied. The highest biosurfactant yield was reached when low C/Mg and low C/P ratio variables were combined, while the cell growth was favored by increasing the nitrogen concentration. The highest surface tension net decrease, on the other hand, was observed at low yeast extract concentration, low C/Fe, and high C/P ratios. Emulsification indices against lubrication and automobile waste oil of approximately 65 to 95% were observed. The crude biosurfactant produced in the medium—formulated with 2% waste frying oil, 0.067% NH4Cl, 0.025% MgSO4·7H2O, 0.067% KH2PO4, and 0.0026% FeCl3·6H2O—removed approximately 78 to 97% of the petroleum and motor oil adsorbed in sand samples.
In Defense of Data: Information and the Costs of Privacy
Authors: Lenard Thomas M. , Rubin Paul H.
Published: April 2010

The commercial use of information on the Internet has produced substantial benefits for consumers. But, as the use of information online has increased, so have concerns about privacy. This paper discusses how the use of individuals' information for commercial purposes affects consumers, and the implications of restricting information availability in the interest of privacy. It lays out a range of information benefits to consumers of the commercial use of online information, including targeted services, cost reductions through targeted advertising, efficient search engines, differential pricing and re‐use of information. It argues that firms have incentives to satisfy customers' privacy preferences and that restrictions in the legitimate use of information may not lead to further privacy benefits. It discusses a number of policy proposals geared at maximizing privacy, arguing that benefits to consumers would be outweighed by the information costs.
Early diagnosis of acute kidney injury
Authors: Dehne Marius , Hartmann Bernd , Katzer Christian , Röhrig Rainer
Published: April 2010

There is a considerable lack of data concerning the diagnostic testing for kidney damage after surgical procedures. In this situation the most important variables should be examined with respect to their clinical informative value, the costs associated with their analysis, and their potential use in routine diagnostic testing. Forty patients in the surgical intensive care unit (ICU) with acute kidney injury (AKI) that developed during their stay of 13–18 (median, 16) days in the ICU were examined daily during their entire ICU admission. The bulk of the laboratory research consisted of the measurement of creatinine, urea, and sodium, as well as clearances rates and diuresis. Various tests for diagnosing regional renal damage (enzymes and proteins) were also carried out. The included photometry, nephelometric analysis, and ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). Five days before an AKI became evident, pathologic levels of urinary α1-microglobulin (tubular parameter) could already be confirmed. Serum creatinine values or creatinine clearance indicated the presence of disease only 1 day before the AKI was seen. Our results show that determination of α1-microglobulin and immunoglobulin G (glomerular parameter) levels, in addition to the level of urea in serum, be recommended for patients in surgical intensive care units who are at risk for AKI. Use of these procedures can achieve early recognition and sufficiently precise localization of renal damage.
The effect of environmental factors on filtration and the oxygen consumption rate of the rotifer Brachionus plicatilis: a primary exploration of red tide control
Authors: Kang Kyoung , Seon Seung , Brzozowska Renata , Lee Jae
Published: April 2010

The effect of environmental factors on filtration and the oxygen consumption rate of the rotifer Brachionus plicatilis: a primary exploration of red tide control

To evaluate the potential to control red tides using the mass-cultured heterotrophic grazer, rotifer Brachionus plicatilis, the effects of environmental factors (water temperature and salinity) on physical activities (filtration and oxygen consumption rate) of B. plicatilis were estimated. Experiments were conducted at different water temperatures (15, 20, 25, 30 and 35°C) and salinities (20, 25, 30, 35 and 40 PSU), in 25 different combinations (5 temperatures × 5 salinities). Results showed that water temperature and salinity had significant effects on the filtration rate of B. plicatilis (F=41.66, P<0.05). The results of multiple regression analysis yielded the following functional dependence of filtration rate (F) on water temperature (T) and salinity (S): F=-1.658+0.917 T+0.63S (R2=0.769, P<0.001). The highest filtration rate (4.23 ±0.74 μl rot-1 h-1) was obtained at 30°C and salinity 35 PSU, and the lowest one (0.869 ±0.13 μl rot-1 h-1) was observed at 15°C and salinity 20 PSU. Both water temperature and salinity had significant effects on the oxygen consumption rate of B. plicatilis (F=34.08, P<0.05). The results of multiple regression analysis yielded the following functional dependence of oxygen consumption rate (O) on water temperature (T) and salinity (S): O=-3.133+0.165T+0.81S (R2=0.938, P<0.001). The highest oxygen consumption rate (5.38 ±0.66 ng rot-1 h-1) was observed at 35°C and salinity 40 PSU, and the lowest one (1.01 ±0.15 ng rot-1 h-1) was observed at 15°C and salinity 20 PSU. Results from this present study indicated that the filtration and oxygen consumption rate of the rotifer were significantly influenced by the water temperature and salinity. The utilization of rotifer for red tide control has to consider the influence of environmental factors.
The effect of sodium amidotrizoate on the growth and content of various metabolites in the green alga Chlorella vulgaris Beijerinck
Authors: Pietryczuk Anna , Czerpak Romuald , Popławska Beata , Wolski Tadeusz
Published: April 2010

The aim of this work is to detect how 3,5-diacetamido-2,4,6-triiodosodium benzoate (sodium amidotrizoate), a synthetic derivative of the anti-auxin triiodonezoic acid (TIBA), influences the growth and content of primary metabolites in the green alga Chlorella vulgaris Beijerinck. It strongly suppressed cell number by 6-20%, chlorophyll a by 6-14%, chlorophyll b by 20-24%, total carotenoids by 7-13% and monosaccharides by 7-8% at the concentration of 10-4 M, in comparison to the control. On the other hand, sodium amidotrizoate applied at lower concentrations (10-7 - 10-6 M) acted as a weak stimulator of analyzed biochemical compounds in algal cells. No statistically significant effect was detected with the application of sodium amidotrizoate at a concentration of 10-8 M. It seems that sodium amidotrizoate plays an important role in algal growth and development and probably possesses anti-auxin activity, like TIBA.
The biodiversity of psammon rotifers in Włocławek Reservoir
Authors: Bielańska-Grajner Irena , Poznańska Małgorzata
Published: April 2010

In total 47 rotifer taxa were found in the psammon of Włocławek Reservoir; 36 at the site in Dobiegniewo and 38 at Dobrzyń. Five species were classified as psammobionts, 14 as psammophiles, and the remaining ones as psammoxens. Psammobionts and psammophiles were observed mostly in the psammon at Dobiegniewo.

The highest density of psammon rotifers was noted in the euarenal zone of the flooded part of the reservoir. However, the highest density in the area near the swift current was noted in the hygroarenal zone. While the flooded part of the reservoir had four dominant species of rotifer: Lecane closterocerca, L. scutata, Lepadella patella and Cephalodella catellina, the area near the swift current had only two: Cephalodella catellina and Brachionus quadridentatus.

The most favorable conditions for the development of psammon rotifers was in the flooded area of the reservoir. In comparison with other dam-reservoirs in Poland, the community of these rotifer types in the Włocławek Reservoir was characterized by considerable species richness.
Biofilm development on acrylic coupons during the initial 24 hour period of submersion in a tropical coastal environment
Authors: Satheesh Sathyanasen , Wesley Samuel
Published: April 2010

The sequence of biofilm formation on a hard surface during the first 24 hours in a coastal environment was studied by suspending acrylic coupons. Adsorption of carbohydrates, proteins, calcium, magnesium, nitrite, nitrate and phosphate were monitored along with microbes. The results showed that carbohydrate, protein, nitrite and nitrate were adsorbed on the coupons within an hour of exposure. Carbohydrates showed a maximum value of 0.28 mg cm-2 after 24 hours and protein concentration reached up to a maximum of 0.41 mg cm-2. Adsorption of calcium and magnesium was observed after three hours. Settlement of bacteria was also observed on coupons within an hour and diatoms were observed after 15 hours. Diatoms such as Navicula and Nitzschia were the dominant colonizers during the early stages of biofilm development.
New arylhydrazonothiazolidin-5-one disperse dyes for dyeing polyester fibers
Authors: Metwally Mohamed , Khalifa Mohamed , Attia Ehab , Amer Fathy
Published: April 2010

New arylhydrazonothiazolidin-5-one disperse dyes for dyeing polyester fibers

A series of new thiazolidin-5-one disperse dyes was synthesized from the reactions of 2-substituted 3-phenylthiazolidinones with various aryldiazonium chlorides. The synthesized dyes were characterized by UV-visible absorption, IR, NMR and MS spectroscopy. The dyes gave orange to reddish-violet shades with very good depth on polyester fibers. The dyed fabrics show moderate to good fastness to light and very good to excellent fastness to washing and perspiration. Also, the assessment of color coordinates was discussed.
Extraction of vanadium compounds from the used vanadium catalyst with the potassium hydroxide solution
Authors: Mazurek Krzysztof , Białowicz Katarzyna , Trypuć Mieczysław
Published: April 2010

Extraction of vanadium compounds from the used vanadium catalyst with the potassium hydroxide solution

The paper presents the results of the research on the degree of the recovery of vanadium(V) from the used vanadium catalyst with the use of KOH solution. The extraction was performed at 293 - 323 K, for 0.5 to 4 h and the catalysts of the variable grain diameter. The concentration of the extracting solution was varied in the range 5 - 20%. The optimal ratio of solid to liquid phase S/L was determined. Additionally the degree of the recovery of total iron ions was presented.
Graded Activity and Graded Exposure for Persistent Nonspecific Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review
Authors: Macedo Luciana G. , Smeets Rob J.E.M. , Maher Christopher G. , Latimer Jane , McAuley James H.
Published: April 2010

Background

Graded activity and graded exposure are increasingly being used in the management of persistent low back pain; however, their effectiveness remains poorly understood.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to systematically review randomized controlled trials that evaluated the effectiveness of graded activity or graded exposure for persistent (>6 weeks in duration or recurrent) low back pain.

Data Sources

Trials were electronically searched and rated for quality by use of the PEDro scale (values of 0–10).

Study Selection

Randomized controlled trials of graded activity or graded exposure that included pain, disability, global perceived effect, or work status outcomes were included in the study.

Data Extraction

Outcomes were converted to a scale from 0 to 100. Trials were pooled with software used for preparing and maintaining Cochrane reviews. Results are presented as weighted mean differences with 95% confidence intervals.

Data Synthesis

Fifteen trials with 1,654 patients were included. The trials had a median quality score of 6 (range=3–9). Pooled effects from 6 trials comparing graded activity with a minimal intervention or no treatment favored graded activity, with 4 contrasts being statistically significant: mean values (95% confidence intervals) for pain in the short term, pain in the intermediate term, disability in the short term, and disability in the intermediate term were −6.2 (−9.4 to −3.0), −5.5 (−9.9 to −1.0), −6.5 (−10.1 to −3.0), and −3.9 (−7.4 to −0.4), respectively. None of the pooled effects from 6 trials comparing graded activity with another form of exercise, from 4 trials comparing graded activity with graded exposure, and from 2 trials comparing graded exposure with a waiting list were statistically significant.

Limitations

Limitations of this review include the low quality of the studies, primarily those that evaluated graded exposure; the use of various types of outome measures; and differences in the implementation of the interventions, adding to the heterogeneity of the studies.

Conclusions

The available evidence suggests that graded activity in the short term and intermediate term is slightly more effective than a minimal intervention but not more effective than other forms of exercise for persistent low back pain. The limited evidence suggests that graded exposure is as effective as minimal treatment or graded activity for persistent low back pain.
Mental Illness Among Police Fatalities in Victoria 1982–2007: Case Linkage Study
Authors: Kesic Dragana , Thomas Stuart D.M. , Ogloff James R.P.
Published: April 2010

Objective: The aim of the present study was to explore the mental health and offending histories for all cases that resulted in fatal use of force by Victoria Police between November 1982 and February 2007.

Methods: Forty-eight fatalities were extracted from the Use of Force (UoF) Register, and then linked with the mental health and police contacts databases. These data were supplemented, where necessary, with relevant information from Coronial Reports and an Office of Police Integrity Report.

Results: All but six cases had involved recorded histories with mental health and criminal justice systems before the fatal incident occurred. Rates of all Axis I disorders were significantly overrepresented, with estimated rates of psychosis and schizophrenia 11.3- and 17.3-fold higher than estimated rates in the general population (95% confidence intervals = 6.3–20.2 and 9.2–32.4, respectively). Although the number of fatalities has halved since inception of Project Beacon (32 before vs 16 after 1995), there has been no reduction in representation of mental illness among those fatally shot.

Conclusions: The significant over-representation of Axis I disorders, including severe mental disorders of psychosis and schizophrenia, is of considerable concern for both the police and the mental health providers. Functional interagency partnerships and police training on how to interact with people in distress are recommended to address the overrepresentation of mentally ill persons in these encounters.
Utilization of Public Mental Health Services in a Random Community Sample
Authors: Short Tamsin , Thomas Stuart , Luebbers Stefan , Ogloff James R. P. , Mullen Paul
Published: April 2010

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine patterns of service utilization in the public mental health service in the Australian state of Victoria. Lifetime contact with the public mental health system will be used to approximate lifetime prevalence for schizophrenia in the community.

Method: A case-linkage design joined a statewide psychiatric register with a random sample of community members drawn from a statewide electoral roll (n = 4830). In cases where individuals had been in contact with public mental health services, their full contact history was extracted.

Results: Members of the community come into contact with public mental health services for a variety of reasons, including those beyond the scope of psychiatric diagnosis and treatment, with 23% of those who made contact not receiving a psychiatric diagnosis and/or ongoing treatment. Although only 0.7% of the sample had a lifetime diagnosis of schizophrenia, these persons accounted for a significant proportion of public mental health service use. Schizophrenia-spectrum disorders were particularly prevalent among psychiatric crisis and extended care and supervision services.

Conclusions: The Australian public mental health system has undergone significant reform in recent years. As a result, there has been a shift towards community-based care and a marked reduction in inpatient facilities. The public mental health system is a service that primarily serves those with a psychotic illness, thereby dictating that persons with so-called high-prevalence disorders, including affective and/or substance use disorders, seek psychiatric treatment elsewhere.
Internalizing Versus Externalizing Comorbidity: Neural Circuit Hypothesis
Authors: Levy Florence
Published: April 2010

The aim of the present study was to review and update historical controversies in relation to the limbic system in light of advances in the neuroanatmy and neurobiology of cortico-striatal–thalamic–cortical (CSTC) neural circuits. It is hypothesized that observed comorbidities between internalizing and externalizing childhood syndromes may be better understood in terms of excess communication between subcortical brain circuits. A neuroanatomical understanding of reciprocal and non-reciprocal connections between modular circuits provides a basis for understanding previously puzzling aspects of internalizing, externalizing comorbidity. Function depends on the degree of cooperative integration of goal orientation, Pavlovian stimulus response, and operant processing in cortical–subcortical circuits, and interventions may be targeted at any of these functions.
(Article retracted 17/09/2010)
Authors: Sharma Nabin , Kruijt Marco , Raaijmakers Jos M.
Published: April 2010

This paper was retracted by the Editors of Nepal Journal of Science and Technology on 17 September 2010.
Economic Use of Brewer’s Dried Grain (BDG) in the Diet of Swine
Authors: Rijal T. B. , Nepali D. B. , Sah R. A. , Sharma M. P.
Published: April 2010

An experiment was conducted from 18th October, 2006 to 18th January, 2007 at IAAS Livestock Farm, Rampur, Chitwan to determine the substitution effects of soybean meal with brewer's dried grain (BDG) on the performance, economics and meat traits of swine production. Starter, grower and finisher diets were formulated containing 18, 16, and 14% CP respectively with 3000 Kcal/kg ME and adequately supplemented with required vitamins, minerals and amino acids. The treatments were: diet without brewer's dried grain -T1 (control diet), diet substituted with 10% brewer's dried grain-T2, diet substituted with 20% brewer's dried grain-T3, diet substituted with 30% brewer's dried grain-T4 and diet substituted with 35% brewer's dried grain-T5. Twenty weaned piglets having 7.37 to 7.94 kg live weight were housed in individual pens. Five piglets were randomly assigned to the five treatments following a randomized complete block design (RCBD) considering each individual as a replication. Fortnightly live weight, daily feed consumption, income over feed and pig cost, and different meat traits of pigs were recorded. The effect of replacing formulated diets with various level of brewer's dried grains on body weight gain was significant (p<0.01) with higher level of substitution resulting lower live-weight at the end of each of starter, grower and finisher diet period. The average body weight of piglets substituted with 35%BDG (27.00kg) and 30%BDG (39.75kg) were significantly lower (p<0.01) compared to the weight of piglets receiving 0% (65.75kg), 10% (64.25kg) and 20% (60.25kg) BDG replaced diets at the end of 3 months experimental period. A significant reduction (P<0.01) in average daily feed consumption were also recorded with increasing level of BDG in the diet. Better feed conversion ratio (FCR) was observed in T2 at early period which at finisher stage T3 diet resulted significantly better FCR which was at par with T1 and T2 diet fed group. However, T5 diet resulted the poorest feed conversion ratio of 5.26, 4.92 and 5.87 for starter, grower and finisher respectively. There was reduction in feed cost with different levels of BDG substitution in diet of pig. Highest income (in per cent) over expenditure (109.01%) was found in T2 followed by T1, T3, and T4. Lowest income over expenditure (-8.2%) was found in T5. Highest dressing percent (71.87%) was recorded in T1 and lowest (70%) in T5 diet fed group. Inclusion of 10-20% BDG seems most acceptable level of substitution of SBM. However, this result needs to be verified under farmer's management condition before recommendation.Key words: Brewer's dried grains; Swine performanceDOI: 10.3126/njst.v10i0.2820 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Volume 10, 2009 December Page: 29-35
Biological Activities of Some Nepalese Medicinal Plants Used in Treating Bacterial Infections in Human Beings
Authors: Bhattarai Shandesh , Chaudhary Ram P , Taylor Robin SL , Ghimire Suresh K
Published: April 2010

In continuation of Nepalese medicinal plant screening research, we have examined the antibacterial property of 40 methanol crude extracts in vitro using disc diffusion method against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis. Overall, 95 % of the extracts showed antibacterial activity against at least one Gram-negative bacteria and 90 % of the extracts against at least one Gram-positive bacteria examined. Twenty-one extracts including Artemisia caruifolia, Dicranostigma lactucoides, Rauvolfia serpentina, and other plants showed antibacterial activity with all the tested bacterial species. The laboratory results are promising because several plants showed broad-spectrum antibacterial property. It is hoped that this scientific research will aware the related partners in Nepal to search for safe, efficacious, cheap alternative antibacterials of plant origin and may create an opportunity for biological conservation of the medicinal plants and cultural diversity conservation.Key words: Antibacterial activity; In vitro; Ethnomedicinal plantsDOI: 10.3126/njst.v10i0.2830Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Volume 10, 2009 December Page: 83-90
Antibacterial and Antifungal Effect of Eupatorium adenophorum Spreng against Bacterial and Fungal Isolates
Authors: Bhattarai Nabin , Shrestha Geeta
Published: April 2010

A research work on antimicrobial effect of water solvent and organic solvent extracts of different concentration of Eupatorium adenophorum (Spreng) was conducted at Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) during August 2008. Fifteen strains of bacteria, six strains of fungi and two concentrations, 50% and 100% of plant extracts were taken for the study. Among the 15 strains of bacteria, most of them were inhibited with E. adenophorum extracts and only three species, Klebsiella oxytoca, K. pneumoniae and Shigella dysenteriae did not show antibacterial activity with the same extract. Extracts obtained from the organic solvent and water solvent showed different antimicrobial properties with the same bacterial strains. Those bacterial strains whose growth was inhibited by water solvent could not inhibited by organic solvent extracts. Organic solvent extract showed antibacterial effect towards Proteus spp., Salmonella spp., Staphylococcus spp., Bacillus subtilis, B. thurengiensis, B. cereus, Enterobacter aerogenes, Salmonella paratyphi, Staplococcus aureus, Proteus mirabilis and water solvent extract showed antibacterial effect towards Peudomonas aeruginosa, E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus spp., Citrobacter frundii, Proteus spp., B. subtilis, B. thurengiensis, Enterobacter aerogenes, Salmonella spp. and S. paratyphi. Altogether 12 species out of 15 were inhibited by E. adenophorum extracts. Both solvent extracts showed high antibacterial effect towards Proteus spp., Staphylococcus spp., Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Among the six species of the fungi, Fusarium spp. were inhibited by plant extract while the Aspergillus spp. and Stenophylum botryosum did not show any effect of the extracts. The plant extracts showed selective effect with different strains of bacteria and fungi, which indicated that they were confined to cure the same bacterial diseases and fungal diseases.Key words: Plant extract; Bacteria; Fungi; Antibacterial; Antifungal; Eupatorium adenophorumDOI: 10.3126/njst.v10i0.2834Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Volume 10, 2009 December Page: 91-95
Entropy of Mixing of Liquid NaCd System
Authors: Chatterjee S. K. , Prasad L. C. , Bhattarai A.
Published: April 2010

The observed asymmetric behaviour of mixing properties of NaCd liquid alloys, with smaller negative value for excess free energy of mixing (-4.4919KJ) has aroused our interest to undertake a theoretical investigation of this system.The existence of an intermetallic compound in the solid phase, which is manifested in the phase diagram,  may be one of the factors for the anomalous behaviour of property of mixing. A simple statistical mechanical theory based on complex formation model (the complex is formed by the preferential arrangement of A and B constituent atoms of the alloy AB ;( μA + νB = Aμ Bν) has been used to investigate the phenomena of compound formation in NaCd liquid alloys through the study of entropy of mixing through out the whole concentration range.Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Volume 10, 2009 December Page: 105-107
The Corrosion Behavior of Sputter-deposited W-Ti Alloys in 0.5 M NaCl Solution
Authors: Bhattarai Jagadeesh
Published: April 2010

The corrosion behavior of the sputter-deposited amorphous or nanocrystalline W-Ti alloys was studied in neutral 0.5 MNaCl solution at 25°C, open to air by immersion tests, electrochemical measurements and confocal scanning laser microscopic(CSLM) techniques. Titanium metal acts synergistically with tungsten in enhancing the corrosion resistance of the sputter-deposited W-Ti alloys so as to show higher corrosion resistance than those of alloy-constituting elements (that is, tungsten and titanium) in neutral 0.5 M NaCl solution. In particular, the amorphous W-Ti alloys containing 30-53 at% titanium showed lowest corrosion rates (that is, about 1 × 10-3 mm.y-1). Open circuit potentials of all the examined W-Ti alloys were shifted to more noble direction than those of the open circuit potentials of alloyconstituting elements in 0.5 M NaCl solution.Key words: Sputter deposition; W-Ti alloys; Corrosion-resistant; CSLM; NaCl solution.DOI: 10.3126/njst.v10i0.2899Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Volume 10, 2009 December Page:109-113
Thermal Induced Structural Conductivity in LPCVD Polysilicon Film on Silicon Nitride/SiO2 Capped (100) Silicon
Authors: Lamichhane Shobha Kanta , Akhtar Jamil
Published: April 2010

Polysilicon (PS) grains are clustered in an order in the presence of thermal doping of boron in low pressure chemical vapour deposition (LPCVD). PS layer is lying on silicon nitride/silicon dioxide bed over (100) silicon substrate. The doped PS at different temperatures has been analyzed for the grain size and the shape of the clusters, employing non-contact mode atomic force microscopy (AFM). The grain size of the PS remains intact without a significant change with increasing doping temperature. A substantial increase in the cluster size and its density of the grains has been observed. The cluster formation mechanism induced by thermal variation is discussed in the context of recorded AFM images. The clusters lead to PS rings comprising of grains of the size of 100 nm.Keywords: Doping; Polisilico; Nanophysics; Grainsize; AFM; MEMS; LPCVD; SOI; ContactmodeDOI: 10.3126/njst.v10i0.2901Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Volume 10, 2009 December Page: 115-119
Estimating Fuelwood Demand and Supply for Forest User Groups from Community Forests
Authors: Aryal Suman , Pokharel Govinda Raj , Kafle Narayan Prasad , Gaire Narayan Prasad
Published: April 2010

Main objectives of this study were to estimate annual fuelwood demand in Community Forest Users Group (CFUG),and annual sustainable supply of the same from Community Forest (CF). Study was done each one community forestof Terai and Hills; Shanti Community Forest (SCF), Saljhandi, Rupandehi (Terai) and Barangdikol Community Forest(BCF), Madanpokhara, Palpa (Hill), in Western Development region, Nepal. Extensive field work was carried out fromMay to July, 2007. Sustainable supply of fuelwood from the CF was estimated by using the methodology mentionedin the "Revised guidelines for community forest resource inventory", MoFSC, 2004. Stratified random sampling withproportional allocation method in three households (HHs) type; HHs with biogas, HHs with ICS and HHs withoutbiogas & ICS, was used to cover 15 % of the HHs in the CFUG during HHs survey for the estimation of fuelwooddemand. The fuelwood consumption pattern in these three HHs types was compared. The result showed that SCFwas found in good condition where as BCF was in poor condition based on regeneration rate and growing stock.Demand and supply analysis showed that only 12.03% of fuelwood demand in SCFUG and 8.03% of the fuelwooddemand in the BCFUG was fulfilled by the sustainable supply of fuelwood from the CF.Key-words: Biogas; Consumption; Energy; Improved cooking stove; Growing stockDOI: 10.3126/njst.v10i0.2948 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 10, 2009 Page:129-133
Low-dimensional Nilpotent Lie Groups G4
Authors: Bhatta Chet Raj
Published: April 2010

An uncertainty principle due to Hardy for Fourier transform pairs on R says that if the function f is "very rapidly decreasing" then the Fourier transform cannot also be "very rapidly decreasing unless f is indentically zero." In this paper we study the relevant data for G4 and state and prove an analogue of Hardy theorem for low-dimensional nilpotent Lie groups G4.Key words: Fourier transform; Uncertainity principle; Nilpotent Lie groupsDOI: 10.3126/njst.v10i0.2951Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 10, 2009 Page: 155-159
Assessment of Drinking Water Quality of Madhyapur-Thimi and Study of Antibiotic Sensitivity against Bacterial Isolates
Authors: Jayana Bina Laxmi , Prasai Tista , Singh Anjana , Yami Kayo Devi
Published: April 2010

The study was undertaken to assess the existing status of drinking water quality of Madhyapur-Thimi. A total of 105 water samples comprising 50 (47.61%) wells, 45 (42.82%) tap water and 10 (9.52%) stone spouts were randomly collected. The physicochemical and microbiological parameters were analyzed following standard technique. The pH (1.9%), conductivity (34.28%) and turbidity (16.19%) of water samples had crossed the permissible guideline values as prescribed by WHO and national standard. All samples contained nitrate values within the WHO permissible value as well as national standard but hardness (2%), chloride (2.85%), iron (26.66%), ammonia (11.42%), and arsenic content (1.90%) crossed the WHO guideline value but none of the water samples crossed the national standard for arsenic. Arsenic having 0.025mg/l (25ppb) was detected from two well water samples, Makanani well and Ajimanani well. Total coliform count showed 64.76% of samples crossed the WHO guideline values. Eleven different kinds of enteric bacteria were isolated from different sources, Enterobacter spp. being the predominant. Isolates were subjected for antibiotic susceptibility pattern using ten antibiotics. Among total isolates, resistance was directed to 79.5% Erythromycin, 62.67% Penicillin G, 61.9% Amoxycillin, 34.5% Ampicillin, 21.1% Tetracycline, 15.4% Ceftriaxone, 14.7% Amikacin, 14.7% Cephotaxine, 5.6% Chlorophenical and 5.6% Ofloxacin respectively.Key words: Coliform; Enteric bacteria; Permissible value; Physicochemical; Antibiotic resistanceDOI: 10.3126/njst.v10i0.2955Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 10, 2009 Page: 167-172
On Development of Meir-Keeler Type Fixed Point Theorems
Authors: Jha K. , Rao K. P.R. , Panthi D.
Published: April 2010

The theory of fixed point is a very extensive field, which has various applications. The present paper deals with some developments of Meir-Keeler type fixed point theorem as its remarkable generalizations under several contractive definitions in metric space.Key words: Common fixed point; Contraction; Metric space; Compatible mapsDOI: 10.3126/njst.v10i0.2956Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 10, 2009 Page: 141-147
Evaluation of Hygienic Treatment of Biowastes by Anaerobic Digestion in Biogas Plants
Authors: Poudel Ram Chandra , Joshi Dev Raj , Dhakal Nawa Raj , Karki Amrit Bahadur
Published: April 2010

Anaerobic digestion in biogas plants is one of the biological methods for safe handling of biowastes. We evaluated the fate of coliforms and pathogens in different biowaste and bioslurry samples. Bacteria were enumerated and identified by culture based microbiological methods and parasites were detected microscopically by formal-ether sedimentation technique. The mean loads of total and faecal coliforms were significantly decreased (P< 0.05) with the anaerobic digestion in the biogas plant. Out of 18 bioslurry samples, only 8 (45%) samples met the USEPA class ‘A' biosolid standard. The mean reduction in load of total and faecal coliforms was observed higher in batch digestion (P< 0.05). The mean load of total and faecal coliforms was significantly (P< 0.05) higher in human and animal excreta. The load of total and faecal coliforms was independent (P> 0.05) of the size of the biogas plant. The result of this study revealed that the degree of sanitizing biowaste depends on digestion type and nature of biowaste.Key words: Anaerobic digestion; Biogas plant; Bioslurry; Biowaste; Coliforms; PathogensDOI: 10.3126/njst.v10i0.2958Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 10, 2009 Page: 183-188
Oligodynamic Action of Silver, Copper and Brass on Enteric Bacteria Isolated from Water of Kathmandu Valley
Authors: Shrestha Rajani , Joshi Dev Raj , Gopali Jyotsna , Piya Sujan
Published: April 2010

Traditionally certain metal pots are used to store drinking water in order to ensure safety. A study was conducted with the aim of evaluating the effect of oligodynamic metals such as copper, silver and brass against enteric gram negative drinking water isolates such as Salmonella paratyphi, Shigella spp., E. coli (MDR), E. coli, Vibrio cholerae and Klebsiella during September 2007 to January 2008. The test was carried out by preparing broth of the respective microorganisms followed with contaminating autoclaved distilled water with 1% (by volume) of the prepared broth culture and incubating the contaminated water in the respective metal pots up to 48 h (holding time). Reduction in the microbial load was assessed by pour plating the water content in the metal pots on Nutrient agar medium in every 0, 4th, 8th, 12th, 24th and 48th h of incubation (holding time). Among three test pots, copper pot showed the maximum bactericidal action compared to silver and brass pots towards most of the enteric gram negative bacterial isolates of water. Complete inhibition of tested organism was recorded within 4 to 48 hours of holding time. This study suggested the promotion of use of water pots made of oligodynamic metals such as silver and copper, and alloy such as brass to control the gram negative enteric pathogens in drinking water.Key words: Oligodynamic action; Heavy metals; Enteric bacteriaDOI: 10.3126/njst.v10i0.2959Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 10, 2009 Page: 189-193
Serum Amylase Activity and its Correlation with Serum Calcium and Albumin
Authors: Pokhrel Nabaraj , Shrestha Usha , Jha Bharat
Published: April 2010

This study was performed in the pathology department of OM Hospital and Research Centre Pvt. Ltd. In this study, amylase, calcium and albumin concentrations in blood serum of 99 subjects visiting this hospital were determined using standard protocol. Out of 99 subjects, 42 were female and 57 were male. Serum amylase activity was  found normal in 47% males and 57% females, serum level calcium was found normal in 57% males and 38% females and serum level of albumin was found normal in 61% males and 73% females. The correlation between total corrected calcium and amylase was found slightly positive (r=0.01). But the correlation between total corrected calcium and albumin and albumin and amylase were found slightly negative (r = -0.33 and -0.06 respectively). The study also revealed that low levels of amylase and calcium can be obtained in significant number of subjects.Key Words: Blood serum; Amylase; Albumin; OM hospitalDOI: 10.3126/njst.v10i0.2960Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 10, 2009 Page: 195-198
Estimation of the Duration of Post-partum Amenorrhea among Nepalese Mothers: Some Indirect Techniques
Authors: Aryal Tika Ram
Published: April 2010

The main aim of this paper is to use some indirect techniques to estimate the duration of post-partum amenorrhea (PPA) among Nepalese mothers by using the data of Ministry of Health (MOH 2001,2006). The techniques used are based on two types of data, i.e., duration of PPA and breastfeeding (BF). Among the techniques, the one developed by Aryal (2008) provided a very close estimate of the duration of PPA period among Nepalese mothers. The estimated average PPA period was found to be 11.8 months against the observed value of 11.1 months in 2001 data (MOH 2001) while it was 10.3 months against the observed value of 9.3 months in 2006 data (MOH 2006). Estimated PPA period was found to be much close especially by fitting the inverse and logarithmic models. In addition to this, duration of PPA period was also estimated in relation to the characteristics of mothers and the results were found to be consistent with the observed values. It is therefore the used techniques provided very close estimate of PPA period, which might be an applicable technique to estimate the duration of PPA period for any population if the data of the duration of breastfeeding are available.Key words: Post-partum amenorrhea; Breastfeeding; Indirect-technique; Curves fitting; FertilityDOI: 10.3126/njst.v10i0.2963Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 10, 2009 Page: 213-218
Studies on shoot and leaf characters of brinjal plants and their quantitative relationships with brinjal shoot and fruit borer
Authors: Ahmad H , Rahman MH , Haque MA , Ahmed KS
Published: April 2010

The field experiment was conducted with twenty brinjal varieties/lines during October 2007 to May 2008 to identify shoot and leaf characteristics of brinjal plants for their susceptibility/resistance against brinjal shoot and fruit borer infestation. Borer infestation was influenced by different characters of plant shoot and leaf. Various parameters like plant height, stem diameter, number of branches and leaves plant-1, third leaf length and width were recorded from different varieties used. The shoot infestation rate was found positively correlated with plant height (0.407), stem diameter (0.520), number of branches plant-1 (0.255), number of leaves plant-1 (0.478), third leaf length (0.373) and third leaf width (0.536). Considering all the recorded parameters, the infestation was found minimum on the variety katabegun WS (1.65%) followed by Marich begun S (1.74%). Keywords: Brinjal shoot and fruit borer; Shoot and leaf characters; Quantitative relationship; Infestation DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v7i1.4794 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 7(1): 29-32, 2009
Comparative studies of callus induction and plant regeneration from mature embryos in rice mutants
Authors: Kamal MAHM , Al Munsur MAZ , Hossain MS , Begum S
Published: April 2010

Experiments were performed with mature embryos of four rice mutants for in vitro callus induction and plant regeneration. Different concentrations of 2,4-D and BAP combined, Kn and NAA combined and MET were used to assess their effects on induction of callus, shoot and roots. Given concentrations of 2,4-D with BAP and rice mutants in vitro cultures showed that Y-1281 and Atomita-4 had produced the highest percentages of callus at 2 mgl-1 2,4-D with 0.5 mgl-1 BAP in both light and dark conditions. Similar results were obtained in terms of concentrations and genotypes when 2,4-D and BAP were used together. Combined 2,4-D and BAP treatments showed significantly higher callusing under light conditions (90%). For shoot and root regenerations, once again the mutant genotype Y-1281 produced the highest percentages of shoots and roots and it also showed highest root length. And 11 mgl-1 2,4-D, 0.5 mgl-1 NAA combined and 2.5 mgl-1 MET concentration resulted significantly the highest shoot and root regeneration. Keywords: Callus induction; Mature embryos; Plant regeneration; Root induction; Rice DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v7i1.4796 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 7(1): 39-45, 2009
In vitro anthelmintic efficacy of some indigenous medicinal plants against gastrointestinal nematodes of cattle
Authors: Amin MR , Mostofa M , Hoque ME , Sayed MA
Published: April 2010

The prevalence of natural gastrointestinal nematodes was observed in cattle during the period from June, 2004 to May, 2005 in Sadar upazila of Mymensingh district. The prevalence of gastrointestinal nematodes was 84.1% (rainy seasons-97%, summer-85.5% and winter seasons-69.8%). The prevalence of strongyles (Haemonchus sp., Trichostrongylus sp., Oesophagostomum sp. and Mecistocirrus sp.), Bunostomum sp., Strongyloides sp., Trichuris sp. and Capillaria sp. were 63.9%, 26.3%, 21.5%, 17.3% and 24.5%, respectively. Water extracts of 20 indigenous plants(neem, tobacco plant, barbados lilac, betel leaf, pineapple, jute, turmeric, garlic, devil's tree, papaya, lime tree, dodder, white teak, conessi tree, bitter gourd, sweet basil, white verticillia, pomegranate, sage, chaste tree) showed potential in vitro activities against adult parasites. Out of these, 20 plant extracts, 10 plants (neem, tobacco, barbados lilac, betel leaf, pineapple, jute, turmeric, garlic, dodder and bitter gourd) showed 100% efficacy against adult worms, 4 plants (devil's tree, papaya, white verticillia and chaste tree) showed 90-98% and others (lime tree, white teak, conessi tree, sweet basil, pomegranate and sage) showed below 90%. Keywords: Anthelmintic; Gastrointestinal nematodes; In vitro; Prevalence; Medicinal plants DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v7i1.4799 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 7(1): 57-61, 2009
Comparative study between semi-intensive and scavenging production system on the performances of Black Bengal goat
Authors: Islam MR , Amin MR , Kabir AKMA , Ahmed MU
Published: April 2010

The experiment was aimed to investigate and compare the growth, milk production and reproductive performances of Black Bengal goat under semi-intensive production (IP) and scavenging production (SP) system. Six Black Bengal does were assigned into 2 treatment (IP and SP) having 3 in each group. The IP group was allowed to graze six hours daily and supplemented with concentrate (soybean meal and wheat bran) and roughage (sorghum and common grass) and the SP group was maintained by the rural landless farmer traditionally as scavenging system. The average birth weight of kids were 1.30 and 0.96 kg for IP and SP systems, respectively and varied significantly (P<0.01). The birth weight of male kids were significantly (P<0.01) higher than that of the female kids. Pre-weaning gain was also significantly (P<0.01) higher in IP than sp system. In both the systems, male kids always showed higher gain than that of females. The kids were weaned at an average age of 92 and 81 days for IP and SP systems, respectively. The kids of the IP and SP systems attained at an average weaning weight of 5.43 and 4.17 kg, respectively which differs significantly (P<0.01). Weaning weight was found to be significantly higher in IP than SP systems. Average initial live weight, live weight at kidding and final live weight at post partum heat of does of IP and SP systems were 22.10, 22.61 and 21.03 and 21.90, 22.35 and 19.73 kg, respectively, where there was no significant difference except the final live weight (P<0.05). The average daily milk yield, total lactation yield and lactation length for IP and SP systems were 214 ml, 20.47 l and 95.33 days and 162 ml, 13.75 l and 84.66 days, respectively and varied significantly (P<0.01). Average litter size of the IP and SP systems was 2.00 and 2.33, respectively. Average post partum heat period and kid mortality were significantly (P<0.01) lower in IP than SP system. Gross return was found higher in IP than that of SP systems. Thus, it can be recommended from the present study that the growth rate, weaning age, weaning weight, milk production, post partum heat period and kid mortality of Black Bengal goat could be improved through proper feeding and better husbandry system which was reflected from gross return. Keywords: Semi-intensive; Scavenging; Production; Reproduction; Black Bengal goat DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v7i1.4803 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 7(1): 79-86, 2009
Influence of Conformational Entropy on the Protein Folding Rate
Authors: Galzitskaya Oxana V.
Published: April 2010

One of the most important questions in molecular biology is what determines folding pathways: native structure or protein sequence. There are many proteins that have similar structures but very different sequences, and a relevant question is whether such proteins have similar or different folding mechanisms. To explain the differences in folding rates of various proteins, the search for the factors affecting the protein folding process goes on. Here, based on known experimental data, and using theoretical modeling of protein folding based on a capillarity model, we demonstrate that the relation between the average conformational entropy and the average energy of contacts per residue, that is the entropy capacity, will determine the possibility of the given chain to fold to a particular topology. The difference in the folding rate for proteins sharing more ball-like and less ball-like folds is the result of differences in the conformational entropy due to a larger surface of the boundary between folded and unfolded phases in the transition state for proteins with a more ball-like fold. The result is in agreement with the experimental folding rates for 67 proteins. Proteins with high or low side chain entropy would have extended unfolded regions and would require some additional agents for complete folding. Such proteins are common in nature, and their structural properties are of biological importance.
Maternal Diet, Behaviour and Offspring Skeletal Health
Authors: Goodfellow Laura R. , Earl Susannah , Cooper Cyrus , Harvey Nicholas C.
Published: April 2010

Osteoporotic fracture has a major impact upon health, both in terms of acute and long term disability and economic cost. Peak bone mass, achieved in early adulthood, is a major determinant of osteoporosis risk in later life. Poor early growth predicts reduced bone mass, and so risk of fracture in later life. Maternal lifestyle, body build and 25(OH) vitamin D status predict offspring bone mass. Recent work has suggested epigenetic mechanisms as key to these observations. This review will explore the role of the early environment in determining later osteoporotic fracture risk.
Synthesis of Hydrophilic and Amphiphilic Acryl Sucrose Monomers and Their Copolymerisation with Styrene, Methylmethacrylate and α- and β-Pinenes
Authors: Barros Maria Teresa , Petrova Krasimira T. , Singh Raj P.
Published: April 2010

Herein, we report the synthesis of monomethacryloyl sucrose esters, and their successful free radical homo- and co-polymerisation with styrene, methylmethacrylate, α- and β-pinene. The chemical, physical, structural and surface chemical properties of these polymers, containing a hydrophobic olefin backbone and hydrophilic sugar moieties as side chains, have been investigated. Biodegradation tests of the copolymer samples by a microbial fungal culture (Aspergillus niger) method showed good biodegradability. The chemical structure and surface chemistry of the synthesized homo- and co-polymers demonstrate their potential technological relevance as amphiphilic and biodegradable polymers.