bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Persistent Elevated Nitrate in a Riparian Zone Aquifer
Authors: Robertson William D. , Schiff Sherry L.
Published: February 2008

Streamside vegetated buffer strips (riparian zones) are often assumed to be zones of ground water nitrate (NO3−) attenuation. At a site in southwestern Ontario (Zorra site), detailed monitoring revealed that elevated NO3−–N (4–93 mg L−1) persisted throughout a 100‐m‐wide riparian floodplain. Typical of riparian zones, the site has a soil zone of recent river alluvium that is organic carbon (OC) rich (36 ± 16 g kg−1). This material is underlain by an older glacial outwash aquifer with a much lower OC content (2.3 ± 2.5 g kg−1). Examination of NO3−, Cl−, SO42−, and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentrations; N/Cl ratios; and NO3− isotopic composition (δ15N and δ18O) provides evidence of four distinct NO3− source zones within the riparian environment. Denitrification occurs but is incomplete and is restricted to a narrow interval located within ∼0.5 m of the alluvium–aquifer contact and to one zone (poultry manure compost zone) where elevated DOC persists from the source. In older ground water close to the river discharge point, denitrification remains insufficient to substantially deplete NO3− Overall, denitrification related specifically to the riparian environment is limited at this site. The persistence of NO3− in the aquifer at this site is a consequence of its Pleistocene age and resulting low OC content, in contrast to recent fluvial sediments in modern agricultural terrain, which, even if permeable, usually have zones enriched in labile OC. Thus, sediment age and origin are additional factors that should be considered when assessing the potential for riparian zone denitrification.
Storage and Dynamics of Carbon and Nitrogen in Soil after Grazing Exclusion in Leymus chinensis Grasslands of Northern China
Authors: Wu L. , He N. , Wang Y. , Han X.
Published: February 2008

Land‐use change can lead to changes in soil carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) storage. This study aimed to determine the impact of long‐term grazing exclusion (GE) on soil organic C and total N (TN) storage in the Leymus chinensis grasslands of northern China and to estimate the dynamics of recovery after GE. We investigated the aboveground biomass and soil organic C and TN storage in six contiguous plots along a GE chronosequence comprising free grazing, 3‐yr GE, 8‐yr GE, 20‐yr GE, 24‐yr GE, and 28‐yr GE. Grazing exclusion for two decades increased the soil C and N storage by 35.7 and 14.6%, respectively, in the 0‐ to 40‐cm soil layer. The aboveground net primary productivity and soil C and N storage were the highest with 24‐yr GE and the lowest with free grazing. The storage increased logarithmically with the duration of GE; after an initial rapid increase after the introduction of GE, the storage attained equilibrium after 20 yr. A logarithmic regression analysis revealed 86.8 and 87.1% variation in the soil C storage and 74.2 and 80.7% variation in the soil N storage in the 0‐ to 10‐cm and 0‐ to 40‐cm soil layers, respectively. Based on these results, we suggest that two decades of GE would restore the L. chinensis grasslands from being lightly degraded to a stable productive condition with good soil C and N storage capacity. Our results demonstrated that by implementing GE, the temperate grasslands of northern China could facilitate significant C and N storage on decade scales in the context of mitigating global climate change.
Use of a Low‐Cost Biosorbent to Remove Pesticides from Wastewater
Authors: Boudesocque Stéphanie , Guillon Emmanuel , Aplincourt Michel , Martel Frédéric , Noël Sandrine
Published: February 2008

A lignocellulosic substrate (LS) obtained from our local agroindustry was used as a low‐cost and effective adsorbent for the removal of pesticides from wastewaters. The studied pesticides were terbumeton (N‐(1,1‐dimethyl)‐Nethyl‐6‐methoxy‐1,3,5‐triazine‐2,4‐diamine), desethyl terbumeton (N‐(1,1‐dimethylethyl)‐6‐methoxy‐1,3,5‐triazine‐2,4‐diamine), dimetomorph (4‐[3‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐3‐(3,4‐dimethoxyphenyl)acryloyl]morpholine), and isoproturon (3‐(4‐isopropylphenyl)‐1,1‐dimethylurea). Batch and column experiments were conducted as a function of pH and pesticide concentration under laboratory and industrial conditions. The concentration range studied for the pesticides varied from 2 × 10−7 to 3 × 10−4 mol L−1 The influence of organic and inorganic pollutants was assessed by studying the retention of pesticide in the presence of copper(II) and a surfactant. These experiments indicated that LS is an efficient adsorbent toward the investigated pesticides and has little influence of the other pollutants. The kinetic adsorptions are fast, and the amounts of adsorbed pesticide varied from 1 to 8 g kg−1 of LS. These retention capacities show that LS can provide a simple, effective, and cheap method for removing pesticides from contaminated waters. Thus, this biomaterial may be useful for cleaning up polluted waters.
Microbial Populations and Enzyme Activities in Soil In Situ under Transgenic Corn Expressing Cry Proteins fromBacillus thuringiensis
Authors: Icoz I. , Saxena D. , Andow D. A. , Zwahlen C. , Stotzky G.
Published: February 2008

TransgenicBtcrops produce insecticidal Cry proteins that are released to soil in plant residues, root exudates, and pollen and that may affect soil microorganisms. As a continuation of studies in the laboratory and a plant‐growth room, a field study was conducted at the Rosemount Experiment Station of the University of Minnesota. ThreeBtcorn varieties that express the Cry1Ab protein, which is toxic to the European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalisHübner), and oneBtcorn variety that expresses the Cry3Bb1 protein, which is toxic to the corn rootworm complex (Diabroticaspp.), and their near‐isogenic non‐Btvarieties were evaluated for their effects on microbial diversity by classical dilution plating and molecular (polymerase chain reaction‐denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis) techniques and for the activities of some enzymes (arylsulfatases, acid and alkaline phosphatases, dehydrogenases, and proteases) involved in the degradation of plant biomass. After 4 consecutive years of corn cultivation (2003–2006), there were, in general, no consistent statistically significant differences in the numbers of different groups of microorganisms, the activities of the enzymes, and the pH between soils planted withBtand non‐Btcorn. Numbers and types of microorganisms and enzyme activities differed with season and with the varieties of corn, but these differences were not related to the presence of the Cry proteins in soil. The Cry1Ab protein ofBtcorn (events Bt11 and MON810) was detected in most soils during the 4 yr, whereas the Cry3Bb1 protein was not detected in soils ofBtcorn (event MON863) expressing thecry3Bb1gene.
Arsenic, Cadmium, and Lead in California Cropland Soils: Role of Phosphate and Micronutrient Fertilizers
Authors: Chen Weiping , Krage Natalie , Wu Laosheng , Pan Genxing , Khosrivafard Maryam , Chang Andrew C.
Published: February 2008

Phosphate and micronutrient fertilizers contain potentially harmful trace elements, such as arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb). We investigated if application of these fertilizer increases the As, Cd, and Pb concentrations of the receiving soils. More than 1000 soil samples were collected in seven major vegetable production regions across California. Benchmark soils (no or low fertilizer input) sampled in 1967 and re‐sampled in 2001 served as a baseline. Soils were analyzed for total concentrations of As, Cd, Pb, P, and Zn. The P and Zn concentrations of the soils were indicators of P fertilizer and micronutrient inputs, respectively. Results showed that the concentrations of these elements in the vegetable production fields in some production areas of California had been shifted upward. Principal component analysis and cluster analysis showed that the seven production areas could be sorted into three categories: (i) enrichment of As, Cd, and Pb, which was associated with the enrichment of P and Zn in one of the seven areas surveyed; (ii) enrichment of As, which was associated with enrichment of Zn in two of the seven areas surveyed; and (iii) no remarkable correlation between enrichment of As, Cd, and Pb and enrichment of P and Zn in the other four areas surveyed.
Rising energy prices and the economics of water in agriculture
Authors: Zilberman David , Sproul Thomas , Rajagopal Deepak , Sexton Steven , Hellegers Petra
Published: February 2008

Rising energy prices will alter water allocation and distribution. Water extraction and conveyance will become more costly and demand for hydroelectric power will grow. The higher cost of energy will substantially increase the cost of groundwater, whereas increasing demand for hydroelectric power may reduce the price and increase supply of surface water. High energy prices and geopolitical considerations drive investment in land-and water-intensive biofuel technology, diverting land and water supplies to energy production at the expense of food production. Thus, rising energy prices will alter the allocation of water, increase the price of food and may have negative distributional effects. The impact of rising energy prices and the introduction of biofuels can be partly offset by the development and adoption of new technologies, including biotechnology. The models considered here can be used to determine the effects of rising energy prices on inputs, outputs, allocation decisions and impact on distribution.
Irrigation versus hydropower: sectoral conflicts in southern Sri Lanka
Authors: Molle François , Jayakody Priyantha , Ariyaratne Ranjith , Somatilake H. S.
Published: February 2008

Although hydropower does not directly consume water, its generation frequently conflicts with other uses, notably irrigation, because its release schedule does not always correspond to the timing of water use by other activities. This article analyses a case from the Walawe river basin, Sri Lanka, where economic efficiency can be raised by reducing releases from the dam for irrigation for the benefit of hydropower generation. The tradeoff is analysed in financial and managerial terms and different options for reducing irrigation diversions are reviewed. Although the high level of current diversions for irrigation warrants the possibility of improvement in management, it is shown that finding ways to reduce supply faces technical and socio-political constraints that make the realization of economic benefits costly and difficult.
China's water–energy nexus
Authors: Kahrl Fredrich , Roland-Holst David
Published: February 2008

As China continues to sustain high rates of economic growth, it is important to better understand patterns of resource use within the Chinese economy and the vulnerability of its growth to resource scarcity. This paper examines relationships between two of China's scarcest resources—energy and water—focusing on the energy implications of water use. Based on an analysis of economy-wide resource flows using China's input-output tables, we draw three overarching conclusions: First, the energy used both directly and indirectly in providing non-agricultural water currently represents only a small fraction of China's total energy consumption. However, this share is set to increase as the country expands its water treatment capacity and hydraulic infrastructure. A lifecycle assessment framework for evaluating these projects would aid policymakers as they choose between more and less energy-intensive modes of water provision. Second, energy-water price interactions are currently of little relevance to policymakers because water prices are low, but the high electricity-intensity of water treatment facilities and their need to recover costs may change this situation. Third, water “migration” from agriculture to non-agricultural uses will have important energy dimensions, which will be important for policymakers to bear in mind as they design water pricing and conservation efforts.
Some insights in the effect of growing bio-energy demand on global food security and natural resources
Authors: Müller Alexander , Schmidhuber Josef , Hoogeveen Jippe , Steduto Pasquale
Published: February 2008

Growing crops for biofuels is often criticized because of its direct competition for land for food production. The recent price increases on world food markets are partly a result of this competition. For instance, cereals prices have increased by more than 60% since 2005 and in 2006 sugar prices peaked at a level twice as high as the level of previous years. There are concerns whether these increases will continue and if the world will run out of resources for food production. According to the authors, these concerns are largely unwarranted. For one, higher prices for food also mean that feedstocks are becoming increasingly expensive for bio-energy production and this endogenously limits the amount of feedstocks that will be used in the energy market. In addition, there is no imminent global resource shortage, neither for land nor for water that would support these concerns. Even with an expanding world population there is globally still enough land and water to grow a substantial amount of biomass for both food and bio-energy production. However, there is an uneven distribution of natural resources, resulting in huge regional differences with important areas experiencing major land and water shortages. China and India, for example, account together for more than 35% of the total global population and both have exploited most of the land and water resources available for agriculture. On the other hand, sub-Saharan Africa and South America still have the potential, in terms of suitable land and exploitable water, to expand areas for agricultural production.

The growing demand for bio-energy will have a negative and positive effect on food. Higher food prices can increase food insecurity among the urban poor and the rural landless population. On the other hand higher prices and more marketable production can stimulate the agricultural sector and create new opportunities for rural communities. At the national level it can offer development opportunities for countries with significant resources.
Regulating water services for Nairobi's informal settlements
Authors: Gerlach Esther
Published: February 2008

Water services regulation has been introduced to the Kenyan water sector as part of a comprehensive sector reform. The research reported in this paper analyses institutional arrangements and the legal framework for formal water service provision and regulation in Nairobi as well as the informal and largely unregulated water markets serving the majority of the population living in the city's many informal settlements. By tracing regulatory developments against a backdrop of steadily increasing population and high poverty levels, the paper examines the role of regulation in facilitating the early delivery of an appropriate level of service to low-income households. By 2006, regulation had only begun to address the significant gaps and ambiguities in the available baseline data and corresponding sector targets, and to include low-income consumers and their current providers into the regulatory framework, while a lack of financial viability prevented the main provider from expanding services into underserved areas. The findings highlight a continued need for institutional strengthening and good regulatory governance to drive pro-poor sector development.
The contested future of irrigation in African rural livelihoods – analysis from a water scarce catchment in South Africa
Authors: Hope R. A. , Gowing J. W. , Jewitt G. P. W.
Published: February 2008

Agricultural improvement is seen as essential for economic growth, poverty reduction and food security in Africa. However, with new and priority demands for water agricultural allocations have come under closer scrutiny, particularly under water scarcity. In post-apartheid South Africa equitable water allocation has become an emblematic policy goal consistent with the imperative to create a fairer society. Catchment managers are now responsible for water allocation decisions across multiple and competing social, economic, environmental and political priorities. This analysis explores these challenges based on a study in the Luvuvhu catchment, Limpopo Province, which comprised (i) socio-economic evaluation of people's livelihoods across 10 communities, (ii) hydrological modelling studies, and (iii) a detailed performance evaluation for one typical smallholder irrigation scheme. Findings from this study indicate that water allocation for smallholder irrigation provides expected income and food benefits for those with secure irrigation access. However, while increasing water allocation for smallholder irrigation may be argued to redress current inequitable distribution within the national irrigated agricultural sector, there is no convincing evidence to support allocating more water to smallholder irrigation schemes when viewed within the wider development challenges in the Luvuvhu catchment. It is argued that catchment managers should rather consider the hydrological and social benefits associated with improvements in dryland farming for increasing food security under water scarcity.
PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS, EXPERIENCES OF EGO LOSS AND SPIRITUALITY: EXPLORING THE EFFECTS OF SPIRITUAL PRACTICE
Authors: KOHLS NIKO , WALACH HARALD
Published: February 2008

The literature supports a positive relationship between spirituality and health. The relationship between spirituality and distress is an underresearched topic. We investigated the relationship between spiritual experiences (SE) and mental distress within two sociodemographically balanced
samples (n = 100) of a spiritually practicing (SP) and a nonpracticing sample (NSP) for two points of measurement (t1; t2). Applying linear regression analysis we compared the influence from SEs, as measured with the Exceptional Experiences Questionnaire (EEQ; Kohls &
Walach, 2006), towards mental distress measured by the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI; Klaiberg, 2002). A strong association between the EEQ (t1) and the BSI (t1, t2) for the NSP (NSP: R2t1 = .36; R2t2 = .27) was
found, but only a weak, relatively moderate one for the SP sample (SP: R2t1 = .07; R2t2 = .16). Path analysis revealed that SP seems to buffer deconstructive spiritual experiences (SP: ßt1 = .06 (ns);
ßt2 = .18 (ns); NSP: ßt1 = .52 (p < .01); ßt2 = .39 (p < .01)) but not psychopathological experiences (SP: ßt1 = .20 (p = ns); ßt2
= .33 (p < .01); NSP: ßt1 = .18 (p = ns); ßt2 = .31 (p < .01), although no significant relationship was found for positive spiritual experiences and visionary dream experiences for either sample. Our findings
suggest that spiritual practice seems to be a potential buffer for distress derived from experiences of ego loss. Correspondingly, the differentiation between experiences of ego loss and psychopathological experiences seems to be pivotal for understanding the intrapersonal effects of SP.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN EXTROVERSION AND LEISURE MOTIVATION: EVIDENCE FROM FITNESS CENTER PARTICIPATION
Authors: Lin Julia Ying-Chao , Wang Edward Shih-Tse , Cheng Julian Ming-Sung
Published: February 2008

In this study the relationship between extroversion and leisure motivation in Taiwanese fitness center members was examined. A systematic sampling (one out of ten entering the fitness center) produced 424 usable questionnaires for the final data analysis. The findings reveal that extroversion
is positively correlated with the four leisure motivation dimensions: Intellectual, Social, Competence-mastery and Stimulus-avoidance. We therefore conclude that extroverts will be highly motivated to attend fitness centers.
AGREEABLENESS AND LEISURE SATISFACTION IN THE CONTEXT OF ONLINE GAMES
Authors: Hou Jia-Jeng , Tu Hill Hung-Jen , Yang Ming-Feng
Published: February 2008

Personality traits and leisure satisfaction have been the subjects of a large amount of empirical research, but there is still little agreement concerning the nature of the relationship between agreeableness and leisure satisfaction. Regression analysis was used to investigate the relationship
between agreeableness and leisure satisfaction in the context of online games. Results reveal that agreeableness has a significant effect on leisure satisfaction. Finally, conclusions and further research are discussed.
SOCIOMETRIC STATUS, DEPRESSION, AND LOCUS OF CONTROL AMONG TURKISH EARLY ADOLESCENTS
Authors: Kaya Alim
Published: February 2008

In this study, locus of control and depression levels of early adolescents (N = 409) with different sociometric status were examined. Sociometric status was determined using the classic sociometric classification procedure as described by Coie, Dodge, and Coppotelli (1982). Students
completed the Children's Depression Inventory and the Nowicki-Strickland Locus of Control Scale. Findings showed that locus of control and depression level of students differed according to sociometric status. Subjects classified as popular and controversial, have much more internal control
than those of any other sociometric status and the neglected and rejected students tend to display more depressive symptoms than those of any other sociometric status.
Kähler manifolds of quasi-constant holomorphic sectional curvatures
Authors: Ganchev Georgi , Mihova Vesselka
Published: February 2008

The Kähler manifolds of quasi-constant holomorphic sectional curvatures are introduced as Kähler manifolds with complex distribution of codimension two, whose holomorphic sectional curvature only depends on the corresponding point and the geometric angle, associated with the section. A curvature identity characterizing such manifolds is found. The biconformal group of transformations whose elements transform Kähler metrics into Kähler ones is introduced and biconformal tensor invariants are obtained. This makes it possible to classify the manifolds under consideration locally. The class of locally biconformal flat Kähler metrics is shown to be exactly the class of Kähler metrics whose potential function is only a function of the distance from the origin in ℂn. Finally we show that any rotational even dimensional hypersurface carries locally a natural Kähler structure which is of quasi-constant holomorphic sectional curvatures.
Limit theorems in free probability theory II
Authors: Chistyakov Gennadii , Götze Friedrich
Published: February 2008

Based on an analytical approach to the definition of multiplicative free convolution on probability measures on the nonnegative line ℝ+ and on the unit circle $$
\mathbb{T}
$$ we prove analogs of limit theorems for nonidentically distributed random variables in classical Probability Theory.
Spectra of partial integral operators with a kernel of three variables
Authors: Eshkabilov Yusup
Published: February 2008

Let Ω= [a, b] × [c, d] and T
1, T
2 be partial integral operators in $$
C
$$(Ω): (T
1
f)(x, y) = $$
\mathop \smallint \limits_a^b
$$
k
1(x, s, y)f(s, y)ds, (T
2
f)(x, y) = $$
\mathop \smallint \limits_c^d
$$
k
2(x, ts, y)f(t, y)dt where k
1 and k
2 are continuous functions on [a, b] × Ω and Ω × [c, d], respectively. In this paper, concepts of determinants and minors of operators E−τT
1, τ ∈ ℂ and E−τT
2, τ ∈ ℂ are introduced as continuous functions on [a, b] and [c, d], respectively. Here E is the identical operator in C(Ω). In addition, Theorems on the spectra of bounded operators T
1, T
2, and T = T
1 + T
2 are proved.
On the fecundity and sex-ratio of Botia Dario (Hamilton) (Cypriniformes : Cobitidae)
Authors: Hussain M Afzal , Khatun Mst Rehana , Hossain M Altaf
Published: February 2008

A total of 1183 Botia Dario (Hamilton) samples were collected from Rajshahi (Shaheb Bazar, Binodpur Bazar, Talaimari Bazar, Kazla Bazar and Godagari) during the period from January, 2002 to August, 2003 to study the fecundity, sex-ratio, relationship between fecundity and total length, standard length, body weight, ovary length as well as ovary weight. The mean fecundity was calculated as 31833.50±10313.42 with a range of 5245 to 53754 in fishes ranging in total length from 96 mm to 135 mm (mean 115.50±12.11 mm) and in body weight from 14.51 g to 43.29 g (mean 29.71±6.91 g). The relationship between the fecundity (F) and total length (TL), standard length (SL), body weight (BW), ovary length (OL) and ovary weight (OW) were found to be linear with the r values 0.94, 0.94, 0.95, 0.92 and 0.98, respectively. The ovum diameter ranged from 0.3 to 0.72 mm and the mean diameter was calculated as 0.518±0.06 mm. The male to female ratio was 1:0.61.

Key words: Botia dario, fecundity, sex-ratio.

Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 26, 2007. pp. 27-29
Occurrence of parasites in Labeo rohita (Hamilton) from Rajshahi
Authors: Bhuiyan Abdus Salam , Akther Sarmin , Musa Golam Mohammad
Published: February 2008

An investigation was made on the parasitic infestation of an indigenous major carp, Labeo rohita collected from different water bodies of Rajshahi district during April 2006 to January 2007. A total of 70 host fishes were examined during the study period of which 55 fishes were found infected by numerous protozoan and metazoan parasites. In all 2348 parasites belonging to eight genera were recorded from the surveyed hosts. Among them six were ectoparasites (Trichodina, Myxobolus Chilodonella, Dactylogyrus, Gyrodactylus and Argulus) and two were endoparasite (Eucreadium and Camallanus). The infestation exhibited monthly or seasonal fluctuation, the maximum abundance of parasites was recorded in the month of December and the minimum in July. It was observed that the infection was the maximum in pre-winter to winter and the minimum in the rainy season. Prevalence, intensity and abundance of the infestation were also found to be related to different length group of the hosts, the medium sized fishes were more infested and the larger size fishes were less infested while the smaller size fishes showed medium infestation.

Key words: Parasite, L. rohita, prevalence, intensity, abundance

Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 26, 2007. pp. 31-34
The fecundity of Hilsa ilisha from the river Padma near Godagari of Rajshahi district
Authors: Akter Mst Arifa , Hossain MD , Hossain M Kabil , Afza R , Bhuyian AS
Published: February 2008

The fecundity of Hilsa ilisha (Hamilton, 1822) were estimated from 20 fully matured females caught from the Padma river near Godagari, Rajshahi and collected from different fish market of Rajshahi City from June to October 2002. The fecundity (F) was found to vary from 5,58,700 to 18,67,000, mean 1239360.35 ± 405068.97 for the fishes with 350-557mm in total length and mean 455.25± 59.94mm and with 600 -1775g in total body weight and mean 1181.85± 356.12g. The co-efficient of correlation for F/TL, F/TW, F/GL and F/GW were 0.8036, 0.8853, 0.7606 and 0.7922 respectively. The regression line for the TL, TW, GL and GW of the sample fishes were found to be linear when they were plotted against their fecundity. All the variables observed (P<0.05) where highly significant . The best indicator of the fecundity of H. ilisha was found to be the total body weight.

Key words: Fecundity, gonad, GSI, Hilsa ilisha.

Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 26, 2007. pp. 41-44
Seasonal variation of plankton population of Borobila beel in Rangpur district
Authors: Chowdhury MMR , Mondol MRK , Sarker C
Published: February 2008

Seasonal variation of the plankton populations with some water quality parameters of Borobila beel, Rangpur district was carried out during July 2003 to June 2004. Total plankton ranged from 98.3×104 to 35.0×105 cells/l with mean values of 19.67±9.77×105 cells/l. A total of 51 genera of planktons were recorded belonging to Chlorophyceae, Bacillariophyceae, Cyanophyceae, Euglenophyceae, Dinophyceae, Crustacea and Rotifera. Among the phytoplankton, Euglenophyceae was the most dominant group and contributing 33% of total phytoplankton in Borobila beel. The greatest abundance of phytoplankton was recorded in November with an average number 28.83×105 cells/l. The minimum abundance of phytoplankton was recorded in January (61.7×104 cells/l). Among the zooplanktons Crustacea was dominant, contributing 71% of the total zooplankton population. The abundance of zooplankton showed two peaks of which one in the month of August (81.7x 104 cells/l) and another in the month of May (16.7 x104 cells/l). Phytoplankton and zooplankton have a nominal positive relationship. Zooplankton was less increased with the increasing of phytoplankton.

Key words: Water quality parameters, plankton population, Borobila beel.

Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 26, 2007. pp. 49-54
Environment related variations in the semen characteristics of bulls used for Artificial Insemination (AI) programme in Bangladesh
Authors: Sarder Md Jalal Uddin
Published: February 2008

The present study assessed the semen characteristics of bulls used for Artificial Insemination (AI) programme in Bangladesh with regard to season, ambient temperature and relative humidity. A total of 3720 semen samples from 71 bulls were collected from Central Cattle Breeding Station and Dairy Farm (CCBSDF), Savar, Dhaka, Rajshahi Dairy and Cattle Improvement Farm (RDCIF), Rajabarihat, Rajshahi and District Artificial Insemination Centre (DAIC), Rajshahi during 1995 - 2002. Semen was collected by artificial vaginal method once a week. Different seasons viz. spring, summer, autumn and winter had significant effect (P<0.05) on colour, density, mass activity, sperm concentration, sperm motility, total sperm cells/ejaculate, total number of motile sperm cells/ejaculate, number of semen doses per collection and postfreezing motility of sperm. The maximum values of these semen characteristics were found in summer. Ambient temperature groups of <21°C, 21-25°C, 25- 29°C and >29°C had significant (P<0.05) effect on all the semen characteristics except for volume of semen. The highest volume of semen was found at >29°C and the lowest at 25-29°C. The total number of sperm cells/ejaculate, total number of motile sperm cells/ejaculate and number of semen doses per collection were found in >29 °C temperature groups. Relative humidity groups of <65%, 65-75%, 75-85% and >85% had significant effect on all the semen characteristics excluding for volume of semen and number of semen doses per collection. The largest volume of semen, colour, mass activity, total sperm cells/ejaculate, total motile sperm cells/ejaculate and number of semen doses/collection were found in >85% relative humidity and the smallest in 65%-75% relative humidity. Finally, this study recommended that, summer season, ambient temperature groups of >29°C and Relative humidity groups of >85% are suitable for excellent semen characteristics.

Key words: AI bulls; semen characteristics; season; temperature; relative humidity

Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 26, 2007. pp. 81-88
A pest of stuffed museum specimen Anthrenus scrophulariae (L.) (Coleoptera: Dermistidae)
Authors: Hasan A Md Ariful , Hossain Md Delowar , Hasan Md Mahbub , Rahman Md Safinur
Published: February 2008

A pest of stuffed museum specimen, Anthrenus scrophulariae is known as carpet beetle. It is a serious and destructive coleopteran insect to stuffed and preserved museum bird and mammal specimens. The larvae devoured the feather, hair and skin of stuffed animals. The stuffed animals became feather or hairless and ultimately destroyed. Food and feeding habits and development of larvae were evaluated. The life history also observed in room temperature. Mean length of mature larvae was 3.16±072; 3.11±054; 2.75±077; 2.92±046 and 2.81±059 mm for feather, leather of goat and cow, dried cocoon of silkworm, dried insects and hair of mammal respectively. Number of eggs varied from 41-54 with a mean of 47.80 in the case of females which supplied food. No food supplied female laid 28-33 eggs. The mean length and breadth of eggs was 0.43±.112 and 0.212±0.54 respectively. Incubation period varied from 12-18 days. Larval period was varied from 140-148 days. Larvae passed 6 instar larvae is brownish in colour and very hairy. Pupal period varied 18-20 days. Mean length of pupae was 3.75±0.30 and breadth 1.87±0.05 mm. The duration to the life cycle (egg to the death of adult) of the carpet beetle, A. scrophulariae was ranged 182-199 days.

Key words: museum specimen A. scrophulariae

Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 26, 2007. pp. 99-102
Toxicity of malathion and lambda-cyhalothrin with piperonyl butoxide against the lesser grain borer, Rhizopertha dominica
Authors: Rahman ASM Shafiqur , Akter MY , Ferdousi Rezwana , Talukder Waliullah
Published: February 2008

Key words: Toxicity, malathion, lambda-cyhalothrin, R. dominica

Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 26, 2007. pp. 103-105
Effect of urea and malathion on the freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium lamarrei (H.M. Edwards)
Authors: Ali Anjuman Ara , Mannan MA , Parween Selina
Published: February 2008

Key words: Agro-chemical, berried, survivability, hatchability.

Univ. j. zool. Rajshahi Univ. Vol. 26, 2007. pp. 107-108
Matters of the Heart: Cardiac Toxicity of Adjuvant Systemic Therapy for Early-Stage Breast Cancer
Authors: Towns K. , Bedard P.L. , Verma Sunil
Published: February 2008

Breast cancer remains the most common malignancy in women. Since the late 1980s, significant advances have been made in the treatment of this cancer. Those advances, particularly the ones in the adjuvant setting, have led to declines in the mortality associated with breast cancer. But another result has been treatments that are more complex and that potentially carry more toxicity. One key toxicity related to the adjuvant therapy of breast cancer is cardiac toxicity. Some of the agents commonly used for the treatment of breast cancer, including anthracyclines, trastuzumab, and possibly even aromatase inhibitors, have been associated with cardiac toxicity. The present article reviews the current understanding of cardiac toxicity risk and strategies to minimize cardiac morbidity associated with cytotoxic chemotherapy, trastuzumab therapy, and hormonal therapy with aromatase inhibitors for early-stage breast cancer.
Cancer Treatment–Related Bone Loss: A Review and Synthesis of the Literature
Authors: Khan M.N. , Khan Aliya A.
Published: February 2008

Cancer therapy can result in significant bone loss and increased risk of fragility fracture. Chemotherapy, aromatase inhibitors, and gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues contribute to increases in the rate of bone remodelling and reduce bone mineral density. Patients with prostate cancer on androgen deprivation therapy experience an increase in the risk of fracture. New research has demonstrated the key role played by bisphosphonates in preventing declines in bone density and increases in bone remodelling. Novel antiresorptive agents targeting receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand have great potential in skeletal protection and prevention of bone loss related to cancer therapy. Early assessment of skeletal health, followed by initiation of calcium, vitamin D, and an exercise program are valuable in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. In addition, individuals at increased risk for fracture should be offered antiresorptive therapy. Early data have demonstrated that bisphosphonates are able to prevent the bone loss and increased bone remodelling associated with cancer therapy, including aromatase inhibition and androgen deprivation therapy. The present paper reviews the new research and advances in the management of bone loss associated with both cancer therapy and estrogen deficiency in the postmenopausal female.
After Radiotherapy, Do Bone Metastases from Gastrointestinal Cancers Show Response Rates Similar to Those of Bone Metastases from Other Primary Cancers?
Authors: Hird A. , Chow E. , Yip D. , Ross M. , Hadi S. , Flynn C. , Sinclair E. , Ko Y. J.
Published: February 2008

Purpose: Reports investigating whether the response rates to palliative radiation therapy (rt) for painful bone metastases from gastrointestinal (gi) cancers are similar to rates for bone metastases from other primary cancer sites have been limited. The present study evaluated response rates for symptomatic bone metastases from gi cancers after palliative outpatient rt in the Rapid Response Radiotherapy Program (rrrp). Patients and Methods: We identified 69 patients with bone metastases from gi primaries who received palliative rt in the rrrp clinic during 1999–2006. We extracted records for 31 of these patients during 1999–2003 from an rrrp database that used the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (esas). Record for the remaining 38 patients during 2003–2006 were extracted from an rrrp database that used the Brief Pain Inventory (bpi). Eligibility criteria for encryption in the two rrrp databases and for collection of patient demographic information (age, sex, primary cancer site, and Karnofsky performance status) were identical. Response rates for this cohort of metastatic gi patients were then compared to rates for 479 patients receiving palliative rt for bone metastases from other primary cancer sites. Pain scores from the esas and bpi and data on analgesic consumption were collected at baseline and by telephone follow-up at 4, 8, and 12 weeks after rt for all patients. Complete (cr), partial (pr), and overall (cr+pr) responses were evaluated according to International Consensus Endpoints. Results: Assessment of the 69 patients with metastatic gi cancers revealed cr, pr, and cr+pr rates of 18%, 42%, and 61% at 4 weeks; 22%, 35%, and 57% at 8 weeks; and 50%, 21%, and 71% at 12 weeks for evaluable patients. The 479 evaluable patients with metastatic cancer from other primary cancer sites had cr, pr, and cr+pr rates of 25%, 27%, and 51% at 4 weeks; 26%, 22%, and 48% at 8 weeks; and 22%, 29%, and 51% at 12 weeks. No statistically significant differences were observed in rt response rates for bone metastases from gi cancers than from other primary cancer sites. Conclusions: After palliative rt, bone metastases from gi cancers demonstrate response rates that are similar to rates for metastases from other primary cancer sites. Patients with symptomatic bone metastases from gi malignancies should be referred for palliative rt as readily as patients with osseous metastases from other primary cancer sites.
Cancer-Associated Thrombosis: Prevention and Treatment
Authors: Brose K. M. J. , Lee A. Y. Y.
Published: February 2008

Patients with cancer are at high risk to develop venous thromboembolism, and they are also more likely to develop complications from anticoagulant treatment. Because little research has focused on the oncology population to date, the optimal methods of prophylaxis and treatment remain uncertain in some clinical situations. Currently, low molecular weight heparin and warfarin are the most frequently used pharmacologic agents; however, they have their limitations. Other therapeutic options, such as inferior caval filters, are poorly studied and remain controversial. A summary of the most recent evidence on the prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolism in cancer patients is presented here.
Titanium‐Catalyzed Enantioselective Synthesis of α‐Ambrinol
Authors: Justicia José , Campaña Araceli G. , Bazdi Btissam , Robles Rafael , Cuerva Juan M. , Oltra J. Enrique
Published: February 2008

We describe the first enantioselective synthesis of the odorant compound (−)‐α‐ambrinol (96% ee) from commercial geranylacetone. The key steps are a Jacobsen’s asymmetric epoxidation and a titanium‐catalyzed stereoselective cyclization initiated by radical epoxide opening. The oxirane ring opening proceeds with retention of configuration at the epoxide chiral center, giving a secondary alcohol which can be advantageously exploited to raise the ee provided by the synthetic sequence. We also synthesized (+)‐α‐ambrinol by a closely related procedure, showing the synthetic versatility of combining titanium‐catalyzed cyclization with Jacobsen’s epoxidation reactions.
Occupational neck and shoulder pain among automobile manufacturing workers in Iran
Authors: Alipour Akbar , Ghaffari Mostafa , Shariati Batoul , Jensen Irene , Vingard Eva
Published: February 2008

Background

Work‐related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) of the upper extremities are a major problem globally, though most relevant studies have been reported from high income countries.

Aims and Methods

The prevalence of neck and shoulder pain and its association with work‐related physical and psychosocial factors and life style was determined by a cross‐sectional survey using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) in the largest Iranian car manufacturing company, with more than 18,000 employees.

Results

A total of 14,384 (79.8%) of all employees completed the questionnaire. Depending on the questions used to measure neck and shoulder symptoms, the prevalence varied widely (from 20.5% to 3.9%). In the multiple logistic regression model, limited to employees with at least 1 year of work experience, risk indicators for disabling pain of the neck and/or shoulder that remained for male were: duration of employment, high visual demands, repetitive work, sitting position at work, awkward working position, no regular exercise, monotonous work, lack of encouraging organizational culture, and anxiety concerning change. For female repetitive work, sitting position at work and no support if there is trouble at work were the only remaining factors.

Conclusions

The study confirms the effects of physical and psychosocial factors on neck and shoulder symptoms among automobile manufacturing workers in a low to middle income country in spite of the relative youth and job insecurity of the population. Am. J. Ind. Med. 51:372–379, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Clinical variability of autosomal dominant cataract, microcornea and corneal opacity and novel mutation in the alpha A crystallin gene (CRYAA)
Authors: Richter Leslie , Flodman Pamela , Barria von‐Bischhoffshausen Fernando , Burch Douglas , Brown Sandra , Nguyen Linda , Turner Julia , Spence M. Anne , Bateman J. Bronwyn
Published: February 2008

We studied 28 individuals from a four‐generation Chilean family (ADC54) including 13 affected individuals with cataracts, microcornea and/or corneal opacity. All individuals underwent a complete ophthalmologic exam. We screened with a panel of polymorphic DNA markers for known loci that cause autosomal dominant cataracts, if mutated, and refined the locus using the ABI Prism Linkage Mapping Set Version 2.5, and calculated two‐point lod scores. Novel PCR primers were designed for the three coding exons, including intron–exon borders, of the candidate gene alpha A crystallin (CRYAA). Clinically, affected individuals had diverse and novel cataracts with variable morphology (anterior polar, cortical, embryonal, fan‐shaped, anterior subcapsular). Microcornea and corneal opacity was evident in some. Marker D21S171 gave a lod score of 4.89 (θm = θf = 0). CRYAA had a G414A transition that segregated with the disease and resulted in an amino acid alteration (R116H). The phenotypic variability within this family was significant with novel features of the cataracts and a corneal opacity. With the exception of iris coloboma, the clinical features in all six previously reported families with mutations in the CRYAA gene were found in this family. We identified a novel G414A transition in exon 3 of CRYAA that co‐segregated with an autosomal dominant phenotype. The resulting amino acid change R116H is in a highly conserved region and represents a change in charge. The genotype–phenotype correlation of this previously unreported mutation provides evidence that other factors, genetic and/or environmental, may influence the development of cataract as a result of this alteration. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Molecular characterization of a de novo ring chromosome 6 in a growth retarded but otherwise healthy woman
Authors: Höckner Martina , Utermann Barbara , Erdel Martin , Fauth Christine , Utermann Gerd , Kotzot Dieter
Published: February 2008

The phenotype of patients with a ring chromosome 6 can be highly variable ranging from almost normal to severe malformations and mental retardation. Size and structure of the ring chromosome as well as the level of mosaicism are important factors for the clinical phenotype. Here, we report on a 25‐year‐old woman with short stature, minor scoliosis, normal fertility, appropriate psychomotor development, minor dysmorphisms, and a de novo ring chromosome 6. Conventional karyotyping as well as molecular cytogenetic and molecular investigations of DUSP22 on 6p and RP1‐191N21.4 on 6q by a new technical approach indicated breakpoints less than 240 kb and less than 190 kb proximal to the telomeres of 6p and 6q, respectively. In addition, formation of the ring chromosome from the paternal chromosome was demonstrated. Thus this case clearly shows that in patients with ring chromosomes without loss of euchromatic material mitotic instability of the ring chromosome is the most important reason for growth retardation and minor congenital anomalies. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Investigation of ionically crosslinked chitosan and chitosan–bovine serum albumin beads for novel gastrointestinal functionality
Authors: Rayment Phillippa , Butler Michael F.
Published: February 2008

The objective of the work was to determine whether chitosan–tripolyphosphate (TPP) systems can be used to develop safe gel particles for in vivo applications. In particular, we are interested in the use of chitosan systems capable of swelling at low pH in vitro as potentially swellable, satiety‐enhancing ingredients. The formation of homogeneous chitosan‐TPP gel beads was improved by reducing the pH of the TPP gelling bath from 8.5 to 4.0 thus increasing the cationic nature of chitosan and the crosslink density. However, the mechanical strength of this system was reduced compared to the basic system. This has been related to tightening of the gel network by increased shrinking of this system. Although release studies have shown that decreasing the pore size of the gel, by increasing the crosslink density through increasing the TPP concentration, is a good way to trap our model release polymer (dextran), in simulated gastrointestinal conditions, these ionic gel beads showed marked shrinking. We propose that this is due to screening of the charge on the chitosan molecule in the presence of salt and/or an excess of TPP which encourages ionic interactions. We conclude that these ionic gels are an unfeasible alternative satiety‐enhancing ingredient to covalently crosslinked systems. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Electrostatic Stabilization and General Base Catalysis in the Active Site of the Human Protein Disulfide Isomerase a Domain Monitored by Hydrogen Exchange
Authors: Hernández Griselda , Anderson Janet S. , LeMaster David M.
Published: February 2008

The nucleophilic Cys36 thiol of the human protein disulfide isomerase a domain is positioned over the N terminus of the α2 helix. Amides in the active site exhibit diffusion‐limited, hydroxide‐catalyzed exchange, indicating that the local positive electrostatic potential decreases the pK value for peptide anion formation by at least 2 units so as to equal or exceed the acidity of water. In stark contrast to the pH dependence of exchange for simple peptides, the His38 amide in the reduced enzyme exhibits a maximum rate of exchange at pH 5 due to efficient general base catalysis by the neutral imidazole of its own side chain and suppression of its exchange by the ionization of the Cys36 thiol. Ionization of this thiol and deprotonation of the His38 side chain suppress the Cys39 amide hydroxide‐catalyzed exchange by a million‐fold. The electrostatic potential within the active site monitored by these exchange experiments provides a means of stabilizing the two distinct transition states that lead to substrate reduction and oxidation. Molecular modeling offers a role for the conserved Arg103 in coordinating the oxidative transition‐state complex, thus providing further support for mechanisms of disulfide isomerization that utilize enzymatic catalysis at each step of the overall reaction.