bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enabling Technology Optimizes Dynamic Mud Weight Management and Reduces Well Cost Associated with Drilling Operations
Authors: Barbato Thomas L. , Cenberlitas A. Serkan , Gala Deepak M.
Published: March 2011

Description of the Material:

The drilling industry's new Micro-Flux Control (MFC) System technology has enabled safer and cost effective processes and practices in defining uncertain down-hole limitations in wells ranging from wildcat to mature fields. MFC is a closed loop system that evaluates available drilling data in real time.

The standard application of MFC technology optimizes drilling practices by its ability to ascertain actual downhole pressure environment limitations in real time. Knowing these limitations allows continuous conventional drilling operations while retaining the benefits of the Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) through dynamic mud weight management. This paper presents a description and features of the MFC system, benefits of standard application, and case studies with real field data.

The Application:

An increasing proportion of wells are drilled in challenging environments; uncertainties and unforeseen events associated while drilling are costly and unsafe. Utilizing MFC methods allows operators to mitigate these drilling events through real time event identification with accurate measurement in mass flow/density and pressures. Furthermore, the MFC system provides an accurate response, and determination, of actual wellbore pressure limitations. Armed with this understanding, wells can be progressively drilled in conventional practice with optimized dynamic mud weight management via drilling parameter adjustments. Common practices of the applications in recent wells are pore/fracture pressure determination through dynamic pore pressure test and LOT/FIT's, identification and mitigation of ballooning, quick identification of kicks and losses in miniscule order of magnitude with or without automatic control, safe and rapid depletion of gas zones, and so forth.

The results, observations and conclusions:

This paper includes actual field cases from recent wells drilled in the United States, North Sea, North Africa, and Asia Pacific. Also, screenshots are presented showing each of the aforementioned events and the mitigation techniques implemented to maintain drilling conditions within the downhole pressure limitations.

The significance of the subject matter:

Micro-Flux Control technology is the only enabling method that closely adheres to the definition of MPD by IADC without changing conventional drilling practices. Eliminating uncertainty during the drilling process enhances overall safety, improves the real-time decision making process, and reduces non productive time and well costs.
Biological Degradation of Simazine by Mixed‐Microbial Cultures Immobilized on Sepiolite and Tepojal Beads
Authors: Castro‐González A. , Prieto‐Jiménez D. , Domínguez‐Vélez A. , Merino‐Castro G.
Published: March 2011

Simazine degradation by mixed microbial cultures was carried out in biological reactors with tepojal and sepiolite beads. The inoculum used is derived from a biotechnological product applied to plant roots, which contains mixed microbial cultures. This inoculum presented a stable adherence to the microorganism support throughout the experiment. In this research, the supports were evaluated in relation to both biofilm formation and simazine removal. For this study, hydraulic and mass starting‐up parameters were established for simazine degradation and for the use of these reactors in the two types of supports. Tepojal had never been used before as a microbial support in any previous research paper. Tepojal demonstrated to be more efficient than sepiolite. Statistical analysis was done for the relationship among the parameters of chemical oxygen demand, colony formation units, total suspended solids, and volatile suspended solids.
Effect of Calcium on Moving‐Bed Biofilm Reactor Biofilms
Authors: Goode C. , Allen D. G.
Published: March 2011

The effect of calcium concentration on the biofilm structure, microbiology, and treatment performance was evaluated in a moving‐bed biofilm reactor. Three experiments were conducted in replicate laboratory‐scale reactors to determine if wastewater calcium is an important variable for the design and optimization of these reactors. Biofilm structural properties, such as thickness, oxygen microprofiles, and the composition of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) were affected by increasing calcium concentrations. Above a threshold concentration of calcium between 1 and 50 mg/L, biofilms became thicker and denser, with a shift toward increasingly proteinaceous EPS at higher calcium concentrations up to 200 mgCa2+/L. At 300 mgCa2+/L, biofilms were found to become primarily composed of inorganic calcium precipitates. Microbiology was assessed through microscopy, denaturing grade gel electrophoresis, and enumeration of higher organisms. Higher calcium concentrations were found to change the bacterial community and promote the abundant growth of filamentous organisms and various protazoa and metazoan populations. The chemical oxygen demand removal efficiency was improved for reactors at calcium concentrations of 50 mg/L and above. Reactor effluents for the lowest calcium concentration (1 mgCa2+/L) were found to be turbid (>50 NTU), as a result of the detachment of small and poorly settling planktonic biomass, whereas higher concentrations promoted settling of the suspended phase. In general, calcium was found to be an important variable causing significant changes in biofilm structure and reactor function.
Effects of Improved Self-Appraisal and Mood Factors on Weight Loss in Obese Women Initiating Supported Exercise
Authors: Annesi James J
Published: March 2011

This study aimed to test to what extent improvements in self-appraisal and mood factors were associated with changes in body mass index (BMI; kg/m2) and waist circumference. Women with obesity (N=171) completed Physical Self-Concept, Exercise Self-Efficacy, Body Areas Satisfaction, Tension, and Depression scales, and were measured on BMI and waist circumference, at baseline and just after a 24-week supported exercise program. With the exception of Physical Self-Concept, improvements on each psychological factor were associated with significantly greater weight and waist circumference improvements. Multiple regression analyses indicated that improvement/non-improvement on the psychological factors explained a significant 9 to 11 percent of the variance in BMI change, and 13 to 20 percent of the variance in waist circumference change. Significant unique contributions to the explained variance in BMI were made by improvements in Exercise Self-Efficacy and Depression, with improvement in Tension also making significant unique contributions to the explained variance in waist circumference change. Consistent with tenets of social cognitive theory, the association of improvements in self-appraisal and mood factors with weight and waist circumference improvements was supported in obese women. Replications and extensions of this preliminary research to, ultimately, improve weight loss theory and treatment, was suggested.
In Vitro Antioxidant Activity of Extracts and Coumarins from the Stem Bark of Mammea africana Sabine
Authors: Nguelefack-Mbuyo Elvine Pami , Dimo Théophile , Nguelefack Télesphore Benoît , Azebaze Anatole G. B. , Dongmo Alain Bertrand , Kamtchouing Pierre , Kamanyi Albert
Published: March 2011

The present study aimed at evaluating the in vitro antioxidant activity (AOA) of the aqueous and methylene chloride/methanol (CH2Cl2-MeOH) extracts of Mammea africana and isolating the active principle(s). The AOA of the aqueous and CH2Cl2-MeOH extracts (3-1000 µg/ml) as well as compounds isolated (1-300 µg/ml) through bio-guided fractionation of the CH2Cl2-MeOH extract was evaluated using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), nitric oxide (NO) production and beta carotene bleaching tests. The aqueous and CH2Cl2-MeOH extracts exhibited a concentration dependent antiradical activity on DPPH with respective EC50 of 2.00 and 5.24 µg/ml. The purification of the CH2Cl2-MeOH extract yielded two coumarins: 4-phenylcoumarins (1) and 4-n-propylcoumarins (2) that exhibited potent radical scavenging activity with EC50 of 7.61 and 22.92 µg/ml, respectively. Plant extracts, fractions and compounds tested substantially increase NO production at high concentrations and exerted a protective effect against the oxidation of beta carotene at all the concentrations used; with a 400% inhibition obtained with the CH2Cl2 fraction at the concentration of 300µg/ml. The above results demonstrate that aqueous and CH2Cl2-MeOH M. africana possess potent AOA and could improve cardiovascular diseases where an increase in NO bioavailability is required. Compounds 1 and 2 are at least partially responsible for these activities.
How do learning goals and strategies influence students’ academic success
Authors: Mirkov Snezana
Published: March 2011

This paper presents findings of the research focused on determining whether
learning goals and strategies influence differences in academic success. The
sample consisted of 364 students of the University of Belgrade. Five
categories of learning goals (knowledge orientation, extrinsic goals,
self-confirmation orientation, lack of orientation and meta-learning) and
four categories of learning strategies (understanding strategies,
reproduction strategies, achievement-oriented strategies and lack of
strategies) were included. Data were analyzed with respect to respondent?s
gender and field of study. According to the obtained results, there are
differences in average exam grades with respect to knowledge and
self-confirmation orientation, meta-learning, understanding strategies and
achievement-oriented strategies. Relations of certain categories of learning
goals and strategies with the length of studying are under gender influence.
Students of social sciences are more oriented towards extrinsic goals
compared to students of humanities and sciences. Students of social sciences
and humanities apply reproduction strategies to a greater extent compared to
students of sciences. The field of study does not influence differences in
academic success with respect to learning goals and strategies. There is
emphasis on the need for acquiring a deeper insight into perspectives of
students themselves and for further research on the possibility of
development of teaching, with the aim of improvement of learning process and
achievement of more quality outcomes.
Effects of maternal gate-keeping behavior on father involvement in care of a pre-school child
Authors: Mihic Ivana
Published: March 2011

The research so far indicates that the context in which the father?s role
takes place significantly influences the form and level of father involvement
in taking care of the child. The primary goal of this research was to
describe the forms and effects of maternal gate-keeping behavior as a
characteristic form of interaction between parents which is, as part of the
context, considered a significant factor in father involvement in care of the
child. Research participants were 247 parental couples from complete families
whose oldest child attended a pre-school institution. Fathers provided
assessments of their own involvement via the Father Involvement Inventory, as
well as assessments of prominence of gate-keeping behavior in their wives
via the checklist of maternal gate-keeping behavior. Mothers reported on
their beliefs about the importance and possibilities of father involvement in
care of the child, as well as on their personal satisfaction with the current
involvement of their husband in the joint care of the child. The results
point out to the particular forms of mothers? ambivalence when it comes to
the joint care of the child, which is a form of gate-keeping behavior. The
frequency of gate-keeping behavior, assessed by the checklist, significantly
changes the possibilities of father involvement in taking care of the child
in the developmental phase of the family, having in mind that the task of
this phase is precisely the definition of parental roles and formation of
parent cooperative principle.
A Validation of the Academic Behavioural Confidence Scale with Spanish Psychology Students
Authors: Sander Paul , De La Fuente Arias Jesús , Stevenson Keith , Jones Tim
Published: March 2011

Research has shown that UK university students' confidence in engaging with their academic studies can be usefully measured using the Academic Behavioural Confidence (ABC) scale. The scale is best considered as a 17-item scale measuring confidence towards grades, studying, verbalising and attendance. A substantial collaborative study with research partners in Spain created the need for the ABC scale to be translated into Castellan Spanish, providing an opportunity to carry out a cross-cultural validation of the scale. A total of 2,056 Spanish psychology students from the universities of Almería and Granada in south-eastern Spain completed an appropriately translated version of the ABC scale. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis showed that the four-subscale structure derived from equivalent UK students was still the best description of the data, although the fit of the four-factor model to the Spanish data was not quite as good as it had been with an equivalent UK sample. Possible explanations for the poorer fit are discussed. A further opportunity arose to validate the Spanish version of the ABC scale against the Revised Two-Factor Study Process Questionnaire. The findings showed that the ABC subscales of Grades, Studying and Verbalising significantly correlated with a deep approach to learning, as predicted, although it is noted that the correlation coefficients, whilst significant ( p < .01), were again not as high as seen with the UK student data. It is nevertheless argued that the ABC scale in both its Spanish and English versions is a useful way of understanding students' orientation to their university study, and can be used in research, as a diagnostic tool or to aid tutors in creating more effective learning opportunities for their students.
Misconceptions and Conceptual Change in Undergraduate Students' Understanding of Psychology as a Science
Authors: Amsel Eric , Baird Todd , Ashley Aaron
Published: March 2011

American undergraduate psychology students' ( N = 438) beliefs about the scientific nature of the discipline were assessed as a function of their year in college (first to fourth year) and academic status in psychology (a comprehensive, limited, or minimal program of study in psychology). Students completed the Psychology as a Science (PAS) questionnaire, in which they evaluated 15 Likert-type statements about scientific psychology. There was a main effect of year in college and academic status, suggesting that those who are academically advanced and committed to a comprehensive study of psychology had a stronger belief that psychology is a science. The results are discussed in terms of the process of conceptual change by which students overcome their misconceptions about psychology as a science.
Illustrating Brain Lateralisation in a Naturalistic Observation of Cell-Phone Use
Authors: Kennison Shelia M. , Bowers J. Michael
Published: March 2011

This article describes an activity designed to increase students' understanding of hemispheric specialisation, specifically the fact that the left hemisphere plays a dominant role in language processing. Because of the contralateral organisation of the auditory system, research has shown a right ear advantage for language processing. The activity involves a naturalistic observation in which students observe individuals using handheld cell (mobile) phones in public locations. The results indicated that more cell phone users listened with the right ear than with the left. Students prepared a written report describing their results, and their understanding of key concepts was assessed before and after the activity. The results demonstrated that the activity increased students' knowledge. Furthermore, students reported that the activity was interesting and enjoyable and they recommended that it be used in future courses.
Experimental and numerical study of friction and .giffness characteristics of small rolling tires
Authors: van der Steen R. , Lopez I. , Nijmeijer H.
Published: March 2011

Virtual testing is nowadays the standard in the design process of new tires. Besides modeling the static response of the tire itself, the dynamics of a rolling tire in contact with the road needs to be incorporated. Due to the uncontrollable environmental conditions and the complex structure of the tires, it is advantageous to use small-scale testing under more controlled conditions. Experimental characterization of frictional properties of rubber compounds is, however, limited due to the necessity of complex measurement systems. In this paper a commercially available laboratory abrasion and skid tester is used to ide.gify both friction and .giffness characteristics of the same rubber compound. The obtained friction properties are implemented in a finite element model of the setup, and different validation steps are presented. Finally, a steady-state transport approach is used to efficiently compute a steady-state solution, which is compared with the experimental results. The numerical results show a good qualitative agreement with the experimental results.
Production of Surface Active Glycolipid by Serratia marcescens NSK-1 Isolated from Petroleum Contaminated Soil
Authors: Anyanwu C.U. , Obi S.K.C. , Okolo B.N.
Published: March 2011

Biosurfactant-producing Serratia marcescens NSK-1 strain was isolated from soil contaminated with petroleum products. The organism, when grown in mineral salts medium with sucrose as sole carbon source, produced a surface-active anthrone-positive glycolipid. The biosurfactant was partially purified by liquid-liquid partition chromatography in chloroform-methanol mixture (1:1) and silica gel chromatography. It reduced the surface tension of distilled water from 72 dynes/cm to 40 dynes/cm and exhibited good emulsification activity with some vegetable oils and hydrocarbons. The biosurfactant exhibited stable surface activity over a wide range of temperature (30-100°C), pH (2-12) and salt concentration. There was no significant toxic effect shown by the biosurfactant towards mice when tested using the World Health Organization guidelines.DOI: 10.3126/on.v8i1.4308
Gamma Radiation (60Co) Exposure and Application of Antagonists for the Suppression of Root Rot Diseases in Sunflower (Helianthus annus L.) and Mung Bean (Vigna radiata (L.) R. Wilczek)
Authors: Dawar S. , Zaki M.J. , Ikram N. , Tariq M.
Published: March 2011

An experiment was carried out for the control of root rot fungi such as Fusarium spp., Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid., and Rhizoctonia solani Kühn in Sunflower (Helianthus annus L.) and Mung bean (Vigna radiata (L.) R. Wilczek). Seeds were treated with gamma radiation (60Co) for 0, 2, 8 and 16 minutes intervals and soil was drenched with different antagonists such as Trichoderma harzianum Rifai, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Schroeter) Migula and Rhizobium meliloti Dangeard. All the antagonists significantly increased germination percentage, shoot length, root length, shoot weight, root weight, leaf area and showed complete suppression of M. phaseolina and R. solani observed in mung bean and sunflower. In both crops, mostly growth parameters increased as the exposure of gamma rays increased whereas in some cases it decreased. P. aeruginosa and R. meliloti were observed to be satisfactory biocontrol agents followed by T. harzianum whereas all exposure time of irradiation of gamma rays (60Co) to seeds of mung bean and sunflower were found to be best.DOI: 10.3126/on.v8i1.4309
Avian Diversity of Bhoj Wetland: A Ramsar Site of Central India
Authors: Vyas V. , Vishwakarma M. , Dhar N.
Published: March 2011

Wetlands provide habitats for various types of birds in different seasons. The present paper discusses the diversity of water birds in Bhoj Wetland of Bhopal which is a Ramsar site and a thousand year old wetland constructed by Raja Bhoj. The wetland provides variety of habitats to the waterbirds and they occupy these habitats according to their niches. Anatidae was the most dominant family recorded during the study period in the peak winter period whereas the population started declining as the temperature rises in the subsequent months. This indicates that most of the migratory species belong to the family Anatidae comprising ducks. They prefer deep water habitats with submerged vegetation. Looking to the importance of the wetland a study was conducted in the winter season in Bhoj Wetland of Bhopal (Central India) which is a Ramsar site. DOI: 10.3126/on.v8i1.4310
In-vitro Conservation of Bacopa monniera (L.) Wettst.: A Memory Booster Plant
Authors: Prabha J. , Rani U. , Sen A. , Verma R.N. , Batra A.
Published: March 2011

A mass in-vitro propagation system of Bacopa monniera (L.) Wettst., a traditional medicinal herb, has been developed. Shoot proliferation and growth were greatly influenced by the months of the year during which the explant were collected. High frequency bud break coupled with maximum number of shoots through nodal segment were found in the month of June and August. Of the different growth regulators tried, for in vitro shoot regeneration, MS medium with BAP (1.0 mg/l) induced maximum number of proliferative shoots (65.00±1.453). Multiplication and elongation of the shoots were obtained after regular sub culturing on the same medium after 15-21 days. Rooting from basal end of the shoots occurred on MS medium with the addition of IBA (0.5 mg/l). After a hardening phase of 4 weeks, almost 95% transplantation was success in the field.DOI: 10.3126/on.v8i1.4311
Study on Hexavalent Chromium Reduction by Chromium Resistant Bacterial Isolates of Sukinda Mining Area
Authors: Mishra V. , Samantaray D.P. , Dash S.K. , Mishra B.B. , Swain R.K.
Published: March 2011

Rapid industrialization coupled with explosive development of chemical and mining industries has not only resulted in global deterioration of the environmental quality but also has drawn attention of scientists for an effective measure to control environmental pollution. Sukinda in the district of Jajpur, Orissa has drawn worldwide attention as one of the most polluted area with chromium due to chromate rich. In the present experiment, attempt has made to detoxify Cr (VI) by chromium resistant bacterial isolates of Sukinda mining area. Random soil and water samples were collected aseptically from four different sites of the mining area and physiochemical parameters of the samples were estimated. Out of the twelve, four chromium resistant bacterial isolates viz., Micrococcus luteus, Pseudomonas putida, Serratia marcescens and Acinetobacter calcoaceticus tolerated hexavalent chromium beyond 500 ppm and selected for reduction. Among all, Acinetobacter calcoaceticus shown highest amount of hexavalent chromium reduction of 67.14% incubated at 30°C for 24 hr at pH 7. Then Acinetobacter calcoaceticus was selected for parametric studies and observed to exhibit highest reduction i.e., 70.53% potential at pH 8.0, temperature 30°C/24 hr. Therefore, Acinetobacter calcoaceticus may be use in the bioremediation of hexavalent chromium toxicity.DOI: 10.3126/on.v8i1.4313
Medicinal Orchids of Nepal: Are They Well Protected?
Authors: Acharya K.P. , Rokaya M.B.
Published: March 2011

This paper aims to explore distribution pattern of orchids used for medicinal purpose and their conservation aspect. We compiled information on 82 species of orchids which are used as herbal medicine. Maximum richness of medicinal orchids was observed at an elevation of 1700 msl but, the maximum numbers of protected areas are located at an elevation of 3000 to 3500 msl. There is a negative correlation between number of protected areas and medicinal orchid species richness mentioning that the protected areas are less synchronized with medicinal orchids of Nepal.DOI: 10.3126/on.v8i1.4315
Trend Analysis and Purpose of Use of Some Important Plant and Animal Species of Ghandruk VDC, Nepal
Authors: Adhikari Y.P. , Fischer A.
Published: March 2011

Ghandruk is one of the famous tourism VDC of Annapurna Conservation Areas (ACA). Trend analysis and propose of use of plants and animal species of Ghandruk Village Development Committee of Kaski district, western part of Nepal was carried out. A total of 54 plant species and 18 animal species with high local economic value were documented from structured questionnaire, interviews, key informants interviews, and focused group discussion with representatives and ACAP staffs. Trend analysis shows that most of the species increased during the past 20 years. All species are equally important for their purpose of uses. Michelia champaca, Schima wallichii, Castanopsis indica are very important trees for timber production. Quercus lamelossa, Q. semicarpifolia and Ficus roxburghii are very good fodder species. Alnus nepalensis colonizes landslides and degraded sites very successfully. Leaf extract of Ageratum conyzoides and fur of Lepus nigricollis is used to control bleeding from cuts and wounds. Medicinal plants, Terminalia bellirica, Terminalia chebula, Acorus calamus and Curcuma langa are used to control cough and bronchitis. The litter of plants is used to make compost fertilizer. Some animals were found the important medicinal purposes, some other used for control mouse populations. Some animals like Canis aureus and Martes flavigula, however, were found to be pests for domestic animals.DOI: 10.3126/on.v8i1.4319
Aquatic Oxygen Uptake of the Freshwater Dual Breathing Featherback, Notopterus notopterus (Pallas) in Relation to Body Weight
Authors: Kumari R. , Roy P.K. , Ghosh T.K.
Published: March 2011

Oxygen uptake (VO2) through the gills in relation to body weight has been studied in Notopterus notopterus at 24.0±1.0ºC under continuous water flow system. With gradual increase in body weight from 5.10 to 122.33 g, the oxygen uptake increased from 1.164-3.975 mlO2.h–1. The log-log plot between the oxygen uptake per unit time and body weight gave a straight line with the slope ‘b’ value of 0.421. The relationship between the two variables was found to be highly significant (r= 0.986; p<0.001). However, the weight specific oxygen uptake decreased from 228.36 to 32.49 with increase in body weight from 5.10 to 122.33 g. A straight line with slope ‘b’ value of   -0.629 was obtained when plotted on log-log coordinates, showing a highly significant negative correlation (r= 0.985; p<0.001).DOI: 10.3126/on.v8i1.4320
Tree Ring and Climate change in Langtang National Park, Central Nepal
Authors: Chhetri P.K. , Thapa S.
Published: March 2011

In present study 120 tree cores from 60 trees of Abies spectabilis from two different sites Chandanbari and Cholangpati area of Langtang National Park were collected. Analysis of increment cores showed that trees in those stands were 100-300 years old. Trees of Chandanbari site were found to be older than Cholangpati. Mean tree ring width of Chandanbari was 2.34 mm and that of Cholangpati site 1.70 mm. Growth rate was higher (2.34 mm/yr) at the Chandanbari than that of Cholangpati (1.70 mm/yr). Series intercorrelation and mean sensitivity were 0.457 and 0.223 for Chandanbari and 0.499 and 0.203 for Cholangpati, respectively. The high mean sensitivity value indicated that high inter-annual variability was present in the ring widths and that the chronology was sensitive to yearly environmental changes; ring width was negatively correlated with minimum monthly temperature and positively correlated with total monthly precipitation.DOI: 10.3126/on.v8i1.4321
Seasonal Variation in Plant Species in the Vicinities of Chimdi Lake in Sunsari, Nepal
Authors: Mandal T.N. , Poudel K.K.C. , Gautam T.P.
Published: March 2011

The plant species composition of the Chimdi lake area showed seasonal variation. Altogether 54 plant species under 21 families, 41 plant species under 19 families and 29 plants species under 14 families have been recorded in summer, rainy and winter seasons respectively. Dominant families were Poaceae 22.2%, Cyperaceae 24.4% and again Poaceae 31% in the above respective seasons. The dicot and monocot members were maximum in the summer and minimum in the winter.DOI: 10.3126/on.v8i1.4323
Evaluation of Acute Toxicity of Mercury, Cadmium and Zinc to a Freshwater Mussel Lamellidens consobrinus
Authors: Bhamre P.R. , Thorat S.P. , Desai A.E. , Deoray B.M.
Published: March 2011

Acute toxicity testing of fresh water mussel Lamellidens consobrinus to HgCl2, CdCl2 and ZnSO4 was carried out. The median lethal concentration (LC50) of HgCl2, CdCl2 and ZnSO4 for 24, 48, 72 and 96 hrs were 1.9616, 1.8602, 1.6983 and 1.4066; 1.9050, 1.8631, 1.7542 and 1.6195; 1.9952, 1.9664, 1.9529 and 1.6756 ppm respectively. Analysis of results indicates that L. consobrinus is highly sensitive to HgCl2 than CdCl2 and ZnSO4. The toxicants can be arranged in order of their toxicities as Hg>Cd>Zn.DOI: 10.3126/on.v8i1.4326
Limnological Studies Related to Physico-Chemical Characteristics of Water of Santragachi and Joypur Jheel, W.B., India
Authors: Patra A. , Santra K.B. , Manna C.K.
Published: March 2011

The present study deals with the seasonal limnological investigation related to physico-chemical characteristics of water of the Santragachi and Joypur Jheel, West Bengal, India. Besides temperature and meteorological data, 17 limnological parameters were tested following standard methods at 3 sampling sites/stations of each Jheel. The physico-chemical parameters (transparency, pH, DO, BOD, COD, free CO2, total alkalinity, conductivity, CaCO3, TSS, TDS, Chloride, Ammonia, Nitrite, Nitrate, Phosphate, etc.) showed distinct temporal or seasonal variation in both the Jheels. Higher nutrient contents (nitrate, phosphate) are present in Santragachi Jheel. This finding also signifies eutrophication/higher trophic level. Water transparency, dissolved oxygen, BOD, total alkalinity, conductivity, CaCO3 hardness, TSS, nitrate and phosphate was correlated with various physico-chemical parameters in both the Jheels.  The physico-chemical characteristics of water of the two Jheels revealed the poor water quality in Santragachi Jheel than the Joypur Jheel. These characteristics showed maximum contamination of water due to sewage effluents in Santragachi Jheel. The two years (February, 2000 - January, 2002) survey reflects higher degree of pollution in Santragachi Jheel.DOI: 10.3126/on.v8i1.4328
A New Record on the Morphometric Variations in the Populations of Horseshoe Crab (Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda Latreille) Obtained from Two Different Ecological Habitats of Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Srijaya T.C. , Pradeep P.J. , Mithun S. , Hassan A. , Shaharom F. , Chatterji A.
Published: March 2011

The allometric analysis was used to study the morphometric variability in two different populations of horseshoe crab (Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda, Latreille) collected from Setiu and Gelang Patah (Johor) of Peninsular Malaysia. Values of all parameters in male and female populations of Setiu were recorded high as compared to the horseshoe crab collected from Gelang Patah. In all relationships (total length, carapace length, carapace width and telson length) either with normal values or when values were converted into their logarithmic values, it showed a straight line which indicated that in both populations the increment of all body parts followed an isometric growth.DOI: 10.3126/on.v8i1.4329
Effect of High Temperature on Survival, Growth and Feed Conversion Ratio of Nile Tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus
Authors: Pandit N.P. , Nakamura M.
Published: March 2011

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of high water temperature on survival and growth performance of Nile tilapia. Two age groups of female Nile tilapia (9 and 50 days after hatching) were reared at 27, 32, 35 and 37°C water temperatures for 45-60 days. At the end of treatment, the mean survival, total weight, total length, daily growth rate and food conversion ratio of both age groups of fishes were significantly reduced at 35 and 37°C compared to 27 and 32°C (p<0.05). It was concluded that water temperature ranging from 27-32°C seemed to be the most effective for rearing of Nile tilapia juveniles and fries, and higher temperature (>32°C) results in slow growth, reduce feeding efficiency and increase mortality. This study also demonstrated the possible impact of global warming on natural fishery resources.DOI: 10.3126/on.v8i1.4331
Ethno-medicinal Active Plants for Treating Cold and Cough in the Vicinity of Nahargarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Jaipur, India
Authors: Khan J.B. , Singh G.P.
Published: March 2011

The present investigation is an attempt to enumerate the ethno-medicinal plants distributed in Nahargarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Jaipur, India. Traditional medicinal knowledge on 29 plant species has been documented which have the active principles for the treatment of cold and cough. A field survey of the study area was carried out to describe for the utility of these plants. Different parts of plant (roots, stem, leaves, bark, fruits, seeds, bulb, etc.) or the whole plant/herb is used as medicinal purpose for various ailments. Short diagnostic description, systematic position and local/tribal names of plants are described.DOI: 10.3126/on.v8i1.4332
Efficacy of Formalin-killed Aeromonas hydrophila and Streptococcus sp. Vaccine in Red Tilapia
Authors: Prasad S. , Areechon N.
Published: March 2011

Humoral response in red tilapia against formalin-killed Aeromonas hydrophila and Streptococ cus sp. vaccine administered by intraperitoneal injection was evaluated.The result indicated that A. hydrophila vaccine induced significantly differed (P<0.05) high mean peak antibody titers of 925.87±467.92 and 4983.47±1832.74 in both primary and secondary immune response, respectively. However specific antibody produced by red tilapia in response to administration of Streptococcus sp. vaccine revealed only weak secondary response of 101.33±45.38. In separate experiment, relative protection in red tilapia immunized with A. hydrophila and Streptococcus sp. vaccine was conducted. Immunization were done by direct immersion for 1 hr in vaccine suspension and then challenged 2 weeks after by immersing fingerlings for 6 hr with virulent A. hydrophila and Streptococcus sp.  Percent cumulative mortality in vaccinated and unvaccinated groups was compared after 14 days of post challenge. Red tilapia immunized by A. hydrophila vaccine demonstrated a particularly high level of immunity (76.67%) compared with unvaccinated (43.33%). Streptococcus sp. vaccine greatly reduced the mortality in vaccinated (31.67%) compared with unvaccinated fish (55%) but these differences in mortality were insignificant (P>0.05). Results from this study indicated the importance of vaccine for increasing disease resistance against A. hydrophila and Streptococcus sp infection by stimulation of specific humoral immunity.  However the most important factor must be the method of vaccine administration which should be effective and applicable to farm scale.DOI: 10.3126/on.v8i1.4333
Studies on Socio-economic Status of Fish Consumers of Bhagalpur City, Bihar
Authors: Poddar A.K. , Kumar A.K. , Subba N.
Published: March 2011

The study indicated that maximum (44.66%) fish consumers were in service (government or private) followed by business (27.00%) in all the three income groups. Maximum (70.00%) fish consumers were Hindus followed by Muslims (12.66%). The maximum fish consumers belong to general castes followed by scheduled castes (23.33%). About 53.00% fish consumers have larger family size (>5 members). The consumers of higher income groups consume fish more often than the lower income groups and only 5.33% fish consumers have no knowledge about the freshness of fish. Among fish species, rohu Labio rohita was found to have been the most preferred followed by catla Catla catla. The lack of awareness among fish consumers about its different forms such as stuffed, pickled and canned forms was found. Present study clearly shows direct relationship between income of the fish consumer and their fish consumption pattern.DOI: 10.3126/on.v8i1.4334
Diversity of Birds in Ousteri Wetland, Puducherry, India
Authors: Padmavathy A. , Alexandar R. , Anbarashan M.
Published: March 2011

Wetlands are very fragile and constitute treasure of biodiversity. The avifaunal diversity in Ousteri freshwater wetland, Puducherry, India, was studied to form a baseline data about several local and migratory bird species of this wetland. Birds are surveyed by direct sighting, calls and variable width line-transect method was carried out in December, 2009 to January, 2010. It resulted in total of 109 species of both migratory and local birds. Such unique diverse systems are under threats like reduction in water retention in this pond in summer, weed infestation; variations in food availability in different seasons, hunting, poaching and threat of predation on the breeding activity of birds affected the avifauna diversity in the study area.DOI: 10.3126/on.v8i1.4335
Diversity of Mammals in and around of Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
Authors: Chhetry D. Thapa , Pal J.
Published: March 2011

Though the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve was established for the protection of wild water buffalo, there are other mammals in and around of it due to the presence of different type of habitats like rivers, oxbow lakes, seepage stream, marshlands, floodplains, ponds, swamp forest etc. This paper deals with the study of mammals in and around of Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve. Altogether 21 species of mammals belonging to 19 genera and 13 families were found during the study period. Among these 3 occurred commonly, 11 rarely and 7 occasionally at local level.DOI: 10.3126/on.v8i1.4336
Depleting of Tropical Forest at a Landscape Scale: Finding Solutions for Bangladesh
Authors: Kibria M.G. , Sunderland T. , Rahman S.A. , Imtiaj A.
Published: March 2011

Drastic deforestation is a major problem of Bangladesh which is contributing to negative downstream impacts on the environment. To address this problem various measurements should be taken at different scales. The main objective of this study is to suggest the possible steps that Bangladesh could halt and reverse the trend of deforestation. An extensive literature review and interviews with government officials, professionals and NGO workers have been used to collect relevant information on the drivers of deforestation in the country. Based on the information gathered, this paper presents the reasons and extent of deforestation, and suggests some positive steps where the Government could be the main mitigating performer by implementing integrated programmes, which will also ensure mass awareness and wider impact. Local NGOs and international bodies must also formulate adequate plans to protect valuable areas of remaining forest.DOI: 10.3126/on.v8i1.4340
Rice Field Blue-green Algae of Bongaigaon District, Assam
Authors: Das A.K. , Sarma G.C.
Published: March 2011

The present study deals with the blue-green algae (BGA) from the rice fields of Bongaigaon district, Assam. 23 species of blue-green algae belongs to 12 genera has been enumerated. Maximum species were found under the genus Nostoc (4), Anabaena (4), which is followed by Scytonema (3) Aphanocapsa (2), Aphanothece (2) and Phormedium (2). Single species was represented by the genera Microcystis, Chroococcus, Merismopedia, Oscillatoria, Aulosira and Calothrix.DOI: 10.3126/on.v8i1.4344
Fern and Fern-Allies of Eastern Terai, Nepal
Authors: Bhagat I.M. , Shrestha S.
Published: March 2011

The present work is based on one year 2001-2002 of intensive and extensive study of ferns of eastern terai, Nepal, in the field, library, laboratory and herbarium. It includes 35 species of ferns and fern allies belonging to 28 genera and 23 families from eastern Terai, Nepal. Out of these the dominant families are Polypodiaceae (5), Adiantaceae (4), Pteridaceae (3). Three families Schizaeaceae, Thelypteridaceae, Dryopte-ridaceae are represented by 2 species. Seventeen families are represented by single species.DOI: 10.3126/on.v8i1.4345
Homo Sapiens as Homo Dei: Paleoanthropology, Human Uniqueness, and the Image of God
Authors: Peterson James C.
Published: March 2011

Abstract:

The biology of Homo sapiens is continuous with other hominids and the rest of life. Yet in Homo sapiens we find emergent capabilities that constitute a unique being. It is this being to whom God introduces God's self, making possible the bearing of the imago Dei, the image of God. Much more than just a special capacity, the imago Dei is also a relationship with God and a way of life that follows. That relationship with God and resulting ethic is the highest purpose of human capacity and uniqueness, when by God's continuing provision Homo sapiens can be welcomed as Homo Dei, people of God.
A Primer in Interdisciplinarity: J. Wentzel van Huyssteen and the Post-Foundational Approach
Authors: Green Erin
Published: March 2011

Abstract:

Understanding the relationship between theological and scientific reasoning is a longstanding problem in the history of Western theology. Two paradigmatic modes of thinking—foundationalism and non-foundationalism—have shaped this discourse and have on the whole hindered, in J. Wentzel van Huyssteen's estimation, fruitful interdisciplinary dialogue. In response to the unchecked affinity for scientific rationality of the former and the relativism of the latter, van Huyssteen proposes a third way to understand interdisciplinary interaction between theology and the natural sciences—post-foundationalism. This approach promises to open a new way of understanding human reasoning by placing interdisciplinary concerns at its core and giving theology a strong public voice. This essay surveys some aspects of van Huyssteen's post-foundationalism, including an orientation to his understanding of foundationalism and non-foundationalism and their interdisciplinary potential.
Transversal Rationality: The Challenge of Assigning ‘Cognitive Parity’ to the Sciences and Theology
Authors: Watson Simon
Published: March 2011

Abstract:

J. Wentzel van Huyssteen uses Calvin Schrag's notion of transversal rationality to argue for a “cognitive parity” between the sciences and religion, implying a degree of separation and equality that can be problematized. Drawing on Lawrence Blum's criticism of Charles Taylor's “The Politics of Recognition,” this essay argues that culture and its diverse products, like science and religion, cannot be treated as abstract totalities to which a value can be determined and affixed. Instead, we could focus on what distinctive values are realized by the cultural form in its own right, rather than compelling a comparison using a language of equivalency. This shift in focus from “equal respect” to “cultural respect” does not mean that one cultural form is superior to the other, only that the framework of equivalency be jettisoned. Science and theology operate in different but shared dimensions, such that science might better be understood as a tool within the larger theological enterprise. The problem, then, is not the universalism of science but the exclusivity of scientism. Science should be understood then as a source within theology, in the same manner as human experience, tradition, and Scripture, and approached using rational judgment, in dialogue and discernment within a believing community.
Transsexuality: Reconciling Christianity and Science
Authors: Fehige Yiftach J.H.
Published: March 2011

Abstract:

Furthering the dialogue with J. Wentzel van Huyssteen over his way of reconciling Christianity and science while reflecting on human uniqueness, I offer a philosophical analysis of the phenomenon of transsexuality. The focus of my analysis is the implications of transsexuality for the metaphysics of reductive naturalism. Envisioning a pluralistic ontology of the sexed human body, I propose to account for human sexuality within the general framework of normative pragmatism. The context of my reflections is a theology of sexual diversity, which I believe van Huyssteen has good reasons to endorse.
Post-Foundationalism and Human Uniqueness: A Reply to Responses
Authors: van Huyssteen J. Wentzel
Published: March 2011

Abstract:

J. Wentzel van Huyssteen responds to eight essays that are related either by methodological or content considerations to his post-foundationalist approach to transversal rationality. The essay underscores the fact that human rationality is a shared resource for dialogues between theology and the sciences and that at the heart of Christian theology are multi-layered concerns that allow also for contextuality and thus eschew abstract or over-generalized approaches in its interdisciplinary discourses. The response is appreciative yet discerning enough to clarify a number of points, including his understanding of epistemic status and cognitive parity and issues of revelation, creation, imago Dei, deep incarnation, Logos Christology, human uniqueness, and sexuality.
Surviving Ourselves: Mothers, Clones and the Legacy of 1968 in Blueprint (2003) and The Elementary Particles (2006)
Authors: Mueller Gabriele
Published: March 2011

This article examines two German films which, in different ways, engage with ethical questions raised by scientific advances in biotechnology and the specter of eugenics: Blueprint (Rolf Schübel, 2003), an adaptation of Charlotte Kerner's Blaupause, and The Elementary Particles (Elementarteilchen, Oskar Roehler, 2006), a cinematic interpretation of Michel Houellebecq's novel with the same title. Assuming different positions, the films contribute to the divisive public debate surrounding human cloning. Their visions vacillate between dystopian warnings of a commodification of human existence and euphoric promises of the potential to genetically erase human flaws forever. The films' main concern, however, is a critique of ideological positions associated with the generation of 1968, and the directors use the debate on genetics to infuse this discussion with an element of radicalism. This article explores the ways in which the films engage with the memory discourse in Germany through the lens of discourses on ethics and biotechnology.
Hastily Arranged Marriage: Political Culture in Germany Twenty Years after Unification
Authors: Novotna Tereza
Published: March 2011

Explanations for the roots and cures of the continuous divergence between East and West German political cultures tend to fall into two camps: socialization and situation. The former emphasizes the impact of socialization before and during the GDR era and ongoing (post-communist) legacies derived from Eastern Germans' previous experience, whereas the latter focuses primarily on economic difficulties after the unification that caused dissatisfaction among the population in the Eastern parts of Germany. The article argues that in order to explain the persistence and reinvigoration of an autonomous political culture during the last two decades in the new Länder, we need to synthesize the two approaches and to add a third aspect: the unification hypothesis. Although the communist period brought about a specific political culture in the GDR, the German unification process—based rather on transplantation than on adaptation—has caused it neither to diminish nor to wither away. On the contrary, the separate (post)-communist political culture was reaffirmed and reinstalled under novel circumstances.
Right-Extremism in Germany: Recruitment of New Members
Authors: Braunthal Gerard
Published: March 2011

Much has been written about German right-extremist groups, regardless of whether they are neo-Nazi political parties or skinheads, but little has been published about their recruitment of new members and sympathizers. As is true of any group, the rightist movement needs constantly TO replenish its ranks in order not to shrink. Thus, they seek recruits in the high school and university student populations. In the latter, they have wooed members of conservative fraternities especially. Moreover, they have sought to win over recruits and officer trainees in the German armed forces. This article assesses their degree of success and raises the questions whether the recruitment by rightist groups differs from democratic groups and whether the rightist groups pose a threat to the existing democratic system.