bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of Carbofuran Residue in the Samples of Sugarcane (Sacharum officinarum L) and Soil of Sugarcane Field
Authors: Kabir KH , Abdullah M , Prodhan MDH , Ahmed MS , Alam MN
Published: March 2016

An experiment was carried out at the Regional Sugarcane Research Station, Gazipur in which carbofuran (2 kg AI/ha) was applied in sugarcane field to document the level of carbofuran residue left in soil and plant samples after different days of application (DAA). Plant and soil samples were analyzed by using GCMS-EI. Carbofuran residues were found even at 90 DAA both in soil and plant. In case of soil, the amount of carbofuran residues were 24.84, 3.32, 2.12, 0.59, 0.035, 0.02 and 0.005 ppm at 0, 3, 7, 15, 30, 60 and 90 DAA, respectively. In case of plant samples, the lower residue (0.0035 ppm) was observed at 0 DAA compared to those at 3 DAA (0.075 ppm), 7 DAA (0.035 ppm) and 15 DAA (0.015 ppm). At 60 and 90 DAA, residues were the same (0.002 ppm) while at 30 DAA it was 0.0025 ppm. The highest level of carbofuran residue (0.075 ppm) in plant samples was found at 3 DAA which is lower than FAO/WHO recommended MRL (0.1mg/kg crop).
Influence of Nitrogen on Growth Performance of Hybrid and Inbred Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Varieties in Boro Season
Authors: Islam MS , Bhuiya MSU
Published: March 2016

Field experiments were conducted during boro season of 2002 and 2003 at the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI) farm having silty clay loam soil. Hybrid variety Sonarbangla-1 and BRRI hybrid dhan1 and modern inbred variety BRRI dhan29 were used in the experiments. Zero to 160 kg N ha-1 with 40 kg interval and different application schedules, chlorophyll meter based (SPAD35) N application and urea supper granules (USG) @ 80 kg N ha-1 were used as N treatments. During boro 2002, BRRI hybrid dhan1 had 10-15% higher tiller number, leaf area index (LAI) and crop growth rate (CGR) than Sonarbangla-1 and BRRI dhan29. Among the N managements, N9 (USG), N5 (160 kg N ha-1 with basal), N6 (160 kg N ha-1 without basal), and N7 (SPAD based N application with basal) showed 10-15% higher plant height, tiller hill-1, LAI and CGR. During boro 2003, Sonarbangla-1 and BRRI hybrid dhan1 had 10-15% higher plant height, tiller hill-1, LAI and CGR compared to the BRRI dhan29. Among the N management, N9 (USG), N5, N6, N7, N3 (120 kg N ha-1 with basal) and N4 (120 kg N ha-1 without basal) treated plots performed better in terms of growth. The LAI and CGR were reduced by 20-25 % at 60 DAT during 2003 compared to 2002 due to cold and the growth of BRRI dhan29 was restricted much.
Effect of Crop Establishment Methods on the Performance of Boro Rice (Oryza sativa L.) in the Cooler Region under Light Texture Soil Condition
Authors: Sarker ABS , Rahman MB , Yasmeen R , Islam MA , Islam SMM
Published: March 2016

An experiment was conducted at the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute regional station, Rangpur to investigate the performances of different establishment methods of Boro rice; variety BRRI dhan29 in light texture soil during Boro 2004-05 and 2005-06 seasons. Five crop establishment methods were tested in a randomize complete block design with three replications. The methods were: 1. Conventional transplanting method 2. System of Rice Intensification (SRI) method, 3. Farmers practice, 4. Seedling throwing method and 5. Direct-Wet Seeded Rice(DWSR) using drum seeder method. Grain yield was influenced by different crop establishment methods in both the seasons. The highest mean grain yield was obtained by BRRI recommended conventional transplanting method (6.27 t ha-1) followed by SRI method (5.70 t ha-1). The highest number of panicles m-2 was obtained from wet DSR by drum seeder method (341 m-2). Effectiveness of tiller (92%) was obtained from the SRI method. The largest number of filled grains per panicle (76) was obtained from the SRI method. The highest 1000-grain weight (23.2 g) was obtained by the farmers method. Less sterility was occurred (30 %) from farmers methods. The highest growth duration (175 days) was observed in farmer method. But the highest field duration of BRRI dhan29 (145 days) was observed in wet DSR using dream seeder.
Feeding Habits of the Mangrove Sesarmid Crab Neosarmatium trispinosum (Crustacea) in the Ryukyu Islands, Japan
Authors: Islam Md Sirajul , Mia Md Younus , Mahmud Sultan , Kamal BM Mostafa
Published: March 2016

Sesarmid crabs are reported to dominate the Indo West-Pacific mangroves and consume huge amounts of mangrove leaves and detritus. Neosarmatium trispinosum Davie (1994) is common in the landward mangroves of the Ryukyu Islands in southern Japan. Stomach contents of the crabs collected from Okinawa, Miyako and Iriomote Islands showed that their diet consisted of mainly mangrove leaves with small amounts of sediments indicating that N. trispinosum is primarily detritivorous. The feeding preference of N. trispinosum was investigated by offering three types (green, yellow and brown) of Bruguiera gymnorrhiza leaves. Crabs were found to prefer brown leaves than the green or yellow ones. Consumption rate of brown leaves was significantly higher (p<0.0001) in cases where green, yellow and brown leaves were provided together, than when provided separately. The C/N ratio shows that the burrow sediments had C/N ratios 2/3 times lower than that of leaves, indicating that mangrove sediments could have higher nutritional value than mangrove leaves.
Input Pricing and Utilization Status for Boro Rice Cultivation: Do Farmers Benefit from Input Liberalization System?
Authors: Islam MS , Alam MS
Published: March 2016

A survey based study was conducted in three districts of Bangladesh to understand the mode of input pricing, problems of timely availability of inputs and the existing input subsidy scenario of Boro rice. Applying the conventional descriptive statistics, the study revealed that there are three major modes of payment for irrigation charges prevailing all over the study areas and it varied from location to location. In Satkhira, irrigation cost appeared to be 75% higher compared to that of Bogra under power operated schemes in cash payment system. Similarly, it was much higher in Satkhira under crop sharing payment system compared to that of cash payment system. Although irrigation cost stands low (Tk.5518/ha) in case of power operated scheme but frequent load shading and low voltage were considered as the major hindrance to the timely supply of irrigation water. The price of Urea fertilizer was 44% higher in Satkhira compared to that in Bogra, probably because of both reduced supply and creation of artificial crisis. The analysis further revealed that rice farmers were very hardly aware of the government subsidy on production inputs. Deep tube- well owners commonly known as water lords were found deriving the benefits of irrigation subsidy. Inadequate monitoring on fertilizer pricing and distribution led to price distortion in almost all over the study areas.
Animal Production Strategies in Southern Region of Bangladesh
Authors: Hossen MJ , Hossain MS , Abedin MJ , Karim MR , Rume FI
Published: March 2016

A survey was conducted in different districts of Barisal division in Bangladesh during May-June, 2008 to assess the production, consumption and marketing of livestock and their products. A total of 114 farmers were interviewed, of which 26, 24, 21, 10, 10 and 9 % were in Patuakhali, Barisal, Barguna, Bhola, Jhalakati and Pirojpur districts, respectively under Barisal division of Bangladesh. The livestock keeping patterns of farm households were cattle, buffalo, goat, chicken or duck or any combination of these. Cattle and chicken population was high in all farm categories and due to marshy area duck was higher in number compared to other region. Cattle and buffaloes were also reared by share system. Average milk production per cow was found 2.25 liter per day. The small and large farmers sold the highest portion of the product and the medium farmers consumed most of their products. On an average, all farm households spent 29, 18 and 19 % income generated through livestock for their daily expenses, agricultural inputs and food, respectively. On an average, health and veterinary expenditure per household was 6.95 US$ (1US$=70BDT). Black quarter (23 %) and Foot and mouth disease (35 %) in cattle, Diarrhoea (39 %) and PPR (29 %) in goat, ranikhet (40 %) and fowl pox (34 %) in poultry were the common disease.
Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path Co-Efficient Analysis for Agronomic Traits in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)
Authors: Saki AI , Zaman MA , Tuhina-Khatun M , Kamal MM , Begum Hasina
Published: March 2016

Forty genotypes of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) were studied in a field experiment conducted at the experimental field of BARI, Joydebpur, during the year 2004-2005. Significant genetic variations were observed among the genotypes for days to flower, plant height, number of branches per plant, number of pods per plant, 100-seed weight and seed yield per plant. The highest genotypic variability was observed in number of seeds per pod and seed yield, followed by number of pods per plant and branches per plant, whereas days to maturity showed the lowest genotypic co-efficient of variability. In all cases, phenotypic variances were higher than the genotypic ones. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance was observed for seed yield per plant, pods per plant, 100-seed weight and dry weight per plant, which indicates that selection could be effective for these traits. Considerable heritability was observed in pod length, seeds per pod and days to flowering. The results showed that seed yield per plant had positive and significant relation with branches per plant and pods per plant. Number of pods per plant were positively correlated with branches per plant but negatively correlated with plant height and days to first flowering. Weight of 100-seed had significant and positive correlation with days to first flowering, dry weight per plant and pod length but had negative correlation with pods per plant and seeds per pod. Days to first flowering, pod length, pods per plant, dry weight per plant had direct effect on yield. Therefore, days to first flowering, pods per plant, pod length, branches per plant and dry weight per plant are found the important characters which could be used in selection for yield.
Elevated CO2 and Nitrogen Interaction in Photosynthesis and Productivity of Modern and Local Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Cultivars
Authors: Razzaque MA , Haque M Moynul , Hamid A
Published: March 2016

Photosynthetic rate and productivity of modern and local rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivars were compared at different levels of nitrogen and elevated CO2 concentrations. BRRIdhan 39 and Shakkorkhora representing modern and local cultivars, respectively were tested under the conditions of three nitrogen levels and three CO2 concentrations. Nitrogen levels were (i) control (0 kg N ha-1), (ii) optimum (90 kg N ha-1 for modern and 60 kg N ha-1 for local cultivar) and (iii) supra optimum (135 kg N ha-1  for modern and 90 kg N ha-1 for local cultivar). Conversely, the three CO2 concentrations were (i) open top chamber (OTC) with elevated CO2 (570 ± 50 ppm), (ii) OTC with ambient CO2 (~360 ppm) and (iii) open field. It was observed that the elevated CO2 independently increased the photosynthetic rates in both cultivars. While in interaction, elevated CO2 and supra optimal nitrogen increased the photosynthetic rate in modern rice cultivar only. Productivity of two rice cultivars corresponded to that of photosynthetic rates. The highest yield (50.82 g plant-1) was found in modern cultivar at supra optimal nitrogen and elevated CO2 treatments. In contrary, the lowest yield (15.09 g plant-1) was observed in local cultivar at zero kg nitrogen treatment. However, productivity of local rice cultivar was substantially increased either by applied optimum nitrogen or by CO2 enrichment.
Combining Ability Estimates in Heat Tolerant Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Genotypes
Authors: Ahmad S , Quamruzzaman AKM , Uddin M Nazim
Published: March 2016

The experiment was conducted at the experimental farm of Olericulture Division, Horticulture Research Centre, Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute, Joydebpur, Gazipur from May to August 2003. Combining ability effects were estimated for yield and component traits in a 8 x 8 diallel design excluding reciprocals in tomato. The variances for general combining ability (GCA) and specific combining ability (SCA) were highly significant indicating the presence of additive as well as non-additive gene effects in the traits studied. The relative magnitude of these variances indicated that additive gene effects were more prominent for all the characters under study. The tomato genotype P1 (TM051) proved to be the best general combiner for yield followed by P2 (TM053) and the combinations P1xP3, P1xP5 and P5xP7 were identified as the best specific combiner for earliness, yield per plant, number of fruits per plant and individual fruit weight.
Water Saving Irrigation in Rice Cultivation with Particular Reference to Alternate Wetting and Drying Method: An Overview
Authors: Husain MM , Alam M Shahe , Kabir MH , Khan AK , Islam MM
Published: March 2016

In the context of global energy crisis and water scarcity, rice production system is undergoing changes with the strategy to produce more rice with lesser amount of water. Water saving technology has therefore, been developed and increasingly adopted to irrigate rice in different countries. Impact of alternate wetting and drying (AWD) irrigation as a water saving technique on rice yield, water productivity and environment has been overviewed in this paper. On-farm trials were conducted during the years 2007 and 2008 to validate the adaptability of AWD method of irrigation in Boro rice-variety BRRI dhan29. The trials were conducted at different locations of Gazipur, in which three farmers plots of rice were irrigated following AWD method, which were then compared with another 3 farmers plots of rice irrigated in conventional method maintaining 3-5 inches of standing water throughout. The trials have revealed that AWD method saved about 365 mm irrigation water (about 27%) over the conventional irrigation practice. However, there was no adverse effect of AWD- irrigation on grain yields of rice. AWD method as perceived by farmers, although reduced irrigation cost, resulted in more weed infestation and was associated with more weeding cost. Following the impressive results of the validation trials, the demonstrations were conducted in the farmers fields of different districts during boro 2009. In general, the demonstrations were successful to impress the farmers about AWD-irrigation as a water saving and low-cost irrigation method. However assurance of timely availability of irrigation is a precondition for farmers to adopt the technique and weed management using appropriate herbicides is necessary for adoption of the technology.
SUBCLINICAL MASTITIS IN LACTATING COWS: COMPARISON OF FOUR SCREENING TESTS AND EFFECT OF ANIMAL FACTORS ON ITS OCCURRENCE
Authors: Badiuzzaman M , Samad MA , Siddiki SHMF , Islam MT , Saha S
Published: March 2016

A total of 444 quarter milk samples from 111 crossbred dairy cows were subjected to California mastitis test (CMT), somatic cell count (SCC) test, white side test (WST) and surf field mastitis (SFMT) test to quantify their efficacy in detecting sub clinical mastitis in dairy cows of Bangladesh during the period from 2010 to 2011.Milk samples positive by CMT, SCC, WST and SFMT were 265,230, 225 and 222 respectively. All samples were subjected to cultural isolation (gold standard test for comparison of indirect mastitis tests). Of these, 261 samples were positive by cultural isolation. The sensitivity of the CMT, SCC, WST and SFMT were 80.08%, 86.60%, 60.54% and 57.47%; specificity 69.40%, 97.81%, 63.38% and 60.66%; percentage accuracy 75.68%,91.22%, 61.71%  and 58.78%; positive predictive value 78.87%, 98.26%, 70.22% and 67.57%; and negative predictive value 70.95%, 83.64%, 52.97% and 50%respectively. Quarter-wise sub clinical mastitis (SCM) was detected in 59.68%, 51.80%, 50.68% and 50% samples by CMT, SCC, WST and SFMT, respectively, while animal-wise SCM was recorded in 72.07%, 66.67%, 64.86% and 61.26% samples by CMT, SCC, WST and SFMT, respectively. The right hind quarters were most significantly (p<0.001) susceptible to SCM than other quarters. Cows with 3rd and 4th parity and at their early lactation stage had significantly higher (p<0.001) SCM than others. Kappa value of SCC was higher than that of CMT. CMT was concluded to be the most accurate test after cultural isolation and SCC. Unlike laboratory tests as cultural isolation and SCC that require adequate laboratory facilities and skilled personnel, CMT is a reliable diagnostic method in field conditions.
PERSISTENCE OF MATERNALLY DERIVED ANTIBODIES IN CALVES TO VACCINATION AGAINST FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE
Authors: Akhter L , Rahman MS , Uddin MG , Rahman MB , Rahman AKMA , Rahman MH , Nahat FW , Islam MT
Published: March 2016

This study aimed to know the level of maternally derived antibody (MDA) titer in calves born to cows vaccinated with inactivated trivalent (type O, A and Asia 1) Foot and Mouth disease vaccine. Three groups of calves (10 calves in each group) of different age were randomly selected from two organized farms from Savar Upazilla of Bangladesh where the dams are routinely vaccinated with trivalent FMD vaccines. Blood samples were collected from these selected calves in six occasions five weeks apart and sera (n=180) were tested for antibody titer against FMDV by using liquid phase blocking ELISA (LPB-ELISA) test. The test is based upon specific blocking of the FMDV antigen in liquid phase by antibodies in the test serum sample. Protective level (PI value >50) of maternal antibody against FMDV was found in serum of calves up to the age of 22-23 wks (above five months) and decreased below protective level (PI value <50) at 27-28 weeks (above 6 months) of age. Irrespective of vaccine types, male calves had slightly higher level of MDA than that of female calves and PI values were comparatively higher against serotype O than the other two serotypes (A and Asia 1). Calves born to vaccinated dams could be vaccinated for first time after five months of their birth to lower the incidence of foot and mouth disease.
A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY OF COMMON DISEASES AT VETERINARY TEACHING HOSPITAL, BANGLADESH AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, MYMENSINGH
Authors: Sarker YA , Miah AH , Sharif N , Himel MH , Islam S , Ray RC , Paul TK , Islam MT , Sikder MH
Published: March 2016

A retrospective study was undertaken to determine the occurrence and distribution of diseases based on species, age, sex, system affected, case type, causal agents and season variation at Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Bangladesh Agricultural University from January 2012 to December 2014. According to the case record, a total of 5036 sick animals were examined and 103 types of diseases were identified during this period. The commonly found various diseases were parasitic disease (33.86%), myiasis (5.96%), PPR (5.16%), pneumonia and pneumonitis (4.11%), repeat breeding (2.88%) and rest of the diseases had lower percentage than 2.5%. Out of the 5036, 1759 cases (35%) were male and 3277 cases (65%) were female. Animals aged between 1-3 years had high occurrence (45.23%) followed by 0-1 year (25.11%). Diseases in digestive system were mostly affected (33.79%) and lowest in cardiovascular system (0.65%). Occurrence of diseases was highest (36.81%) in rainy season (June-October) followed by (35.54%) in summer (March-May) and lowest (27.64%) in winter season (November-February). The findings of this study can be used in the formulation of more effective disease management and control strategies including appropriate vaccination program in this area.
Strip Tillage and Early-Season Broadleaf Weed Control in Seeded Onion (Allium cepa)
Authors: Gegner-Kazmierczak Sarah , Hatterman-Valenti Harlene
Published: March 2016

Field experiments were conducted in 2007 and 2008 near Oakes, North Dakota (ND), USA, to evaluate if strip tillage could be incorporated into a production system of seeded onion (Allium cepa) to eliminate the standard use of a barley (Hordeum vulgare) companion crop with conventional, full width tillage, yet support common early-season weed control programs. A split-factor design was used with tillage (conventional and strip tillage) as the main plot and herbicide treatments (bromoxynil, DCPA, oxyfluorfen, and pendimethalin) as sub-plots. Neither tillage nor herbicide treatments affected onion stand counts. Common lambsquarters (Chenopodium album) densities were lower in strip tillage compared to conventional tillage up to three weeks after the post-emergence applied herbicides. In general, micro-rate post-emergence herbicide treatments provided greater early-season broadleaf weed control than pre-emergence herbicide treatments. Onion yield and grade did not differ among herbicide treatments because the mid-season herbicide application provided sufficient control/suppression of the early-season weed escapes that these initial weed escapes did not impact onion yield or bulb diameter. In 2007, onion in the strip tillage treatment were larger in diameter resulting in greater total and marketable yields compared to conventional tillage. Marketable onion yield was 82.1 Mg ha−1 in strip tillage and 64.9 Mg ha−1 in conventional tillage. Results indicate that strip tillage use in direct-seeded onion production was beneficial, especially when growing conditions were conducive to higher yields and that the use of strip tillage in onion may provide an alternative to using a companion crop as it did not interfere with either early-season weed management system.
SDNPS: A Load-Balanced Topic-Based Publish/Subscribe System in Software-Defined Networking
Authors: Wang Yali , Zhang Yang , Chen Junliang
Published: March 2016

Publish/subscribe systems on the traditional Internet suffer from poor scalability and high delay in the face of the Internet of Things (IoT) environment. Being customizable, the paradigm of software-defined networking (SDN) provides a chance to establish an IoT-specific network. In this paper, we propose an SDN-based publish/subscribe system named SDNPS, which can construct and fine-tune topic-connected overlays for the sake of disseminating events efficiently and non-redundantly based on a global topology overview. It organizes topics as a Huffman-like topic tree and codes them into binary strings so that filtering and forwarding events can be operated directly on SDN-configurable switches, which helps to reduce end-to-end latency. This hierarchical organization form of topic tree makes it possible to incrementally construct and store overlays, which contribute to reducing the time and space complexity of routing computation. More specifically, it achieves a better tradeoff between load-balancing of the overall optimization objective and the minimal forwarding cost of per-topic overlay.
Seasonal Variations and Correlation Analysis of Water-Soluble Inorganic Ions in PM2.5 in Wuhan, 2013
Authors: Huang Ting , Chen Juan , Zhao Weituo , Cheng Jixiong , Cheng Shenggao
Published: March 2016

Daily PM2.5 and water-soluble inorganic ions (NH4+, SO42−, NO3−, Cl−, Ca2+, Na+, K+, Mg2+) were collected at the Hongshan Air Monitoring Station at the China University of Geosciences (Wuhan) (30°31′N, 114°23′E), Wuhan, from 1 January to 30 December 2013. A total of 52 effective PM2.5 samples were collected using medium flow membrane filter samplers, and the anionic and cationic ions were determined by ion chromatography and ICP, respectively. The results showed that the average mass concentration of the eight ions was 40.96 µg/m3, which accounted for 62% of the entire mass concentration. In addition, the order of the ion concentrations was SO42− > NO3− > NH4+ > Cl− >K+ > Ca2+ > Na+ > Mg2+. The secondary inorganic species SO42−, NO3− and NH4+ were the major components of water-soluble ions in PM2.5, with a concentration of 92% of the total ions of PM2.5, and the total concentrations of the three ions in the four seasons in descending order as follows: winter, spring, autumn, and summer. NH4+ had a significant correlation with SO42− and NO3−, and the highest correlation coefficients were 0.943 and 0.923 (in winter), while the minimum coefficients were 0.683 and 0.610 (in summer). The main particles were (NH4)2SO4 and NH4NO3 in PM2.5. The charge of the water-soluble ions was nearly balanced in PM2.5, and the pertinence coefficients of water-soluble anions and cations were more than 0.9. The highest pertinence coefficients were in the spring (0.9887), and the minimum was in summer (0.9459). That is, there were more complicated ions in PM2.5 in the summer. The mean value of NO3−/SO42− was 0.64, indicating that stationary sources of PM2.5 had a greater contribution in Wuhan.
NORE1A Regulates MDM2 Via β-TrCP
Authors: Schmidt M. , Calvisi Diego , Clark Geoffrey
Published: March 2016

Mouse Double Minute 2 Homolog (MDM2) is a key negative regulator of the master tumor suppressor p53. MDM2 regulates p53 on multiple levels, including acting as an ubiquitin ligase for the protein, thereby promoting its degradation by the proteasome. MDM2 is oncogenic and is frequently found to be over-expressed in human tumors, suggesting its dysregulation plays an important role in human cancers. We have recently found that the Ras effector and RASSF (Ras Association Domain Family) family member RASSF5/NORE1A enhances the levels of nuclear p53. We have also found that NORE1A (Novel Ras Effector 1A) binds the substrate recognition component of the SCF-ubiquitin ligase complex β-TrCP. Here, we now show that NORE1A regulates MDM2 protein levels by targeting it for ubiquitination by SCF-β-TrCP. We also show the suppression of NORE1A protein levels enhances MDM2 protein expression. Finally, we show that MDM2 can suppress the potent senescence phenotype induced by NORE1A over-expression. Thus, we identify a mechanism by which Ras/NORE1A can modulate p53 protein levels. As MDM2 has several important targets in addition to p53, this finding has broad implications for cancer biology in tumor cells that have lost expression of NORE1A due to promoter methylation.
Efficient Dehydration of Fructose to 5-Hydroxy-methylfurfural Catalyzed by Heteropolyacid Salts
Authors: Song Yanlei , Wang Xincheng , Qu Yongshui , Huang Chongpin , Li Yingxia , Chen Biaohua
Published: March 2016

5-Hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF), which is derived from numerous industrial biomass resources, has attracted attention in recent years due to its potential as a building block. In this paper, a range of heteropolyacid salts had been investigated for the dehydration of fructose to 5-HMF. CePW12O40 demonstrated the best catalytic activity. Effects of fructose concentration, reaction temperature and reaction time on 5-HMF yield were investigated and optimised through a central composite design and response surface methodology. The optimal 5-HMF yield was 99.40% under the optimized reaction conditions of 5.48 mg/mL fructose loading, 158 °C temperature and 164 min reaction time. A kinetic analysis of the fructose conversion was also performed, and the activation energy and pre-exponential factor were obtained.
On the Path to Optimizing the Al-Co-Cr-Cu-Fe-Ni-Ti High Entropy Alloy Family for High Temperature Applications
Authors: Manzoni Anna , Singh Sheela , Daoud Haneen , Popp Robert , Völkl Rainer , Glatzel Uwe , Wanderka Nelia
Published: March 2016

The most commonly investigated high entropy alloy, AlCoCrCuFeNi, has been chosen for optimization of its microstructural and mechanical properties by means of compositional changes and heat treatments. Among the different available optimization paths, the decrease of segregating element Cu, the increase of oxidation protective elements Al and Cr and the approach towards a γ-γ′ microstructure like in Ni-based superalloys have been probed and compared. Microscopical observations have been made for every optimization step. Vickers microhardness measurements and/or tensile/compression test have been carried out when the alloy was appropriate. Five derived alloys AlCoCrFeNi, Al23Co15Cr23Cu8Fe15Ni16, Al8Co17Cr17Cu8Fe17Ni33, Al8Co17Cr14Cu8Fe17Ni34.8Mo0.1Ti1W0.1 and Al10Co25Cr8Fe15Ni36Ti6 (all at.%) have been compared to the original AlCoCrCuFeNi and the most promising one has been selected for further investigation.
Integration of Microalgae-Based Bioenergy Production into a Petrochemical Complex: Techno-Economic Assessment
Authors: Gonçalves Ana , Alvim-Ferraz Maria , Martins Fernando , Simões Manuel , Pires José
Published: March 2016

The rapid development of modern society has resulted in an increased demand for energy, mainly from fossil fuels. The use of this source of energy has led to the accumulation of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere. In this context, microalgae culturing may be an effective solution to reduce the CO2 concentration in the atmosphere, since these microorganisms can capture CO2 and, simultaneously, produce bioenergy. This work consists of a techno-economic assessment of a microalgal production facility integrated in a petrochemical complex, in which established infrastructure allows efficient material and energy transport. Seven different scenarios were considered regarding photosynthetic, lipids extraction and anaerobic digestion efficiencies. This analysis has demonstrated six economically viable scenarios able to: (i) reduce CO2 emissions from a thermoelectric power plant; (ii) treat domestic wastewaters (which were used as culture medium); and (iii) produce lipids and electrical and thermal energy. For a 100-ha facility, considering a photosynthetic efficiency of 3%, a lipids extraction efficiency of 75% and an anaerobic digestion efficiency of 45% (scenario 3), an economically viable process was obtained (net present value of 22.6 million euros), being effective in both CO2 removal (accounting for 1.1 × 104 t per year) and energy production (annual energy produced was 1.6 × 107 kWh and annual lipids productivity was 1.9 × 103 m3).
Performance Evaluation of Radiator and Radiant Floor Heating Systems for an Office Room Connected to a Ground-Coupled Heat Pump
Authors: Sarbu Ioan , Sebarchievici Calin
Published: March 2016

A ground-coupled heat pump (GCHP) system used to provide the space heating for an office room is a renewable, high performance technology. This paper discusses vapour compression-based HP systems, briefly describing the thermodynamic cycle calculations, as well as the coefficient of performance (COP) and CO2 emissions of a HP with an electro-compressor and compares different heating systems in terms of energy consumption, thermal comfort and environmental impact. It is focused on an experimental study performed to test the energy efficiency of the radiator or radiant floor heating system for an office room connected to a GCHP. The main performance parameters (COP and CO2 emissions) are obtained for one month of operation of the GCHP system, and a comparative analysis of these parameters is presented. Additionally, two numerical simulation models of useful thermal energy and the system COP in heating mode are developed using the Transient Systems Simulation (TRNSYS) software. Finally, the simulations obtained from TRNSYS software are analysed and compared to the experimental data, showing good agreement and thus validating the simulation models.
Salivary Alpha-Amylase Reactivity in Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Wan Cynthia , Couture-Lalande Marie-Ève , Narain Tasha , Lebel Sophie , Bielajew Catherine
Published: March 2016

The two main components of the stress system are the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) and sympathetic-adrenal-medullary (SAM) axes. While cortisol has been commonly used as a biomarker of HPA functioning, much less attention has been paid to the role of the SAM in this context. Studies have shown that long-term breast cancer survivors display abnormal reactive cortisol patterns, suggesting a dysregulation of their HPA axis. To fully understand the integrity of the stress response in this population, this paper explored the diurnal and acute alpha-amylase profiles of 22 breast cancer survivors and 26 women with no history of cancer. Results revealed that breast cancer survivors displayed identical but elevated patterns of alpha-amylase concentrations in both diurnal and acute profiles relative to that of healthy women, F (1, 39) = 17.95, p < 0.001 and F (1, 37) = 7.29, p = 0.010, respectively. The average area under the curve for the diurnal and reactive profiles was 631.54 ± 66.94 SEM and 1238.78 ± 111.84 SEM, respectively. This is in sharp contrast to their cortisol results, which showed normal diurnal and blunted acute patterns. The complexity of the stress system necessitates further investigation to understand the synergistic relationship of the HPA and SAM axes.
Using a Hybrid Model to Forecast the Prevalence of Schistosomiasis in Humans
Authors: Zhou Lingling , Xia Jing , Yu Lijing , Wang Ying , Shi Yun , Cai Shunxiang , Nie Shaofa
Published: March 2016

Background: We previously proposed a hybrid model combining both the autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) and the nonlinear autoregressive neural network (NARNN) models in forecasting schistosomiasis. Our purpose in the current study was to forecast the annual prevalence of human schistosomiasis in Yangxin County, using our ARIMA-NARNN model, thereby further certifying the reliability of our hybrid model. Methods: We used the ARIMA, NARNN and ARIMA-NARNN models to fit and forecast the annual prevalence of schistosomiasis. The modeling time range included was the annual prevalence from 1956 to 2008 while the testing time range included was from 2009 to 2012. The mean square error (MSE), mean absolute error (MAE) and mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) were used to measure the model performance. We reconstructed the hybrid model to forecast the annual prevalence from 2013 to 2016. Results: The modeling and testing errors generated by the ARIMA-NARNN model were lower than those obtained from either the single ARIMA or NARNN models. The predicted annual prevalence from 2013 to 2016 demonstrated an initial decreasing trend, followed by an increase. Conclusions: The ARIMA-NARNN model can be well applied to analyze surveillance data for early warning systems for the control and elimination of schistosomiasis.
Heavy Physical Work: Cardiovascular Load in Male Construction Workers
Authors: Lunde Lars-Kristian , Koch Markus , Veiersted Kaj , Moen Gunn-Helen , Wærsted Morten , Knardahl Stein
Published: March 2016

This study aimed to elucidate cardiovascular loads (CVL) in construction workers during work and leisure by relative heart rate (RHR) over several days. Furthermore, we sought to evaluate the level of CVL in relation to individual factors, work ability, musculoskeletal pain and subjective general health. From a group of 255 construction workers responding to the baseline questionnaire, the CVL during work and leisure time was determined by recording RHR in 42 workers over 3–4 days. Almost 60% of the workday was spent below 20% RHR. The mean RHR during work for all participants was 16% RHR, with large differences between professions. On average, the 42 workers spent 14% of the workday at a RHR above 33%, and four subjects (10%) had a mean RHR above 33% during work. Eight (19%) of the participants had a mean length of their workday exceeding calculated maximal acceptable work time. Seven persons (17%) experienced on average one or more episode(s) of 5 min or more continuously above 33% RHR. The cardiovascular load at work was significantly associated with age and V ˙O2max, but not with work ability, musculoskeletal pain or subjective general health.
Research Data Management Training for Geographers: First Impressions
Authors: Helbig Kerstin
Published: March 2016

Sharing and secondary analysis of data have become increasingly important for research. Especially in geography, the collection of digital data has grown due to technological changes. Responsible handling and proper documentation of research data have therefore become essential for funders, publishers and higher education institutions. To achieve this goal, universities offer support and training in research data management. This article presents the experiences of a pilot workshop in research data management, especially for geographers. A discipline-specific approach to research data management training is recommended. The focus of this approach increases researchers’ interest and allows for more specific guidance. The instructors identified problems and challenges of research data management for geographers. In regards to training, the communication of benefits and reaching the target groups seem to be the biggest challenges. Consequently, better incentive structures as well as communication channels have to be established.
Minimax Duality for MIMO Interference Networks
Authors: Dotzler Andreas , Riemensberger Maximilian , Utschick Wolfgang
Published: March 2016

A minimax duality for a Gaussian mutual information expression was introduced by Yu. An interesting observation is the relationship between cost constraints on the transmit covariances and noise covariances in the dual problem via Lagrangian multipliers. We introduce a minimax duality for general MIMO interference networks, where noise and transmit covariances are optimized subject to linear conic constraints. We observe a fully symmetric relationship between the solutions of both networks, where the roles of the optimization variables and Lagrangian multipliers are inverted. The least favorable noise covariance itself provides a Lagrangian multiplier for the linear conic constraint on the transmit covariance in the dual network, while the transmit covariance provides a Lagrangian multiplier for the constraint on the interference plus noise covariance in the dual network. The degrees of freedom available for optimization are constituted by linear subspaces, where the orthogonal subspaces induce the constraints in the dual network. For the proof of our duality we make use of the existing polite water-filling network duality and as a by-product we are able to show that maximization problems in MIMO interference networks have a zero-duality gap for a special formulation of the dual function. Our minimax duality unifies and extends several results, including the original minimax duality and other known network dualities. New results and applications are MIMO transmission strategies that manage and handle uncertainty due to unknown inter-cell interference and information theoretic proofs concerning cooperation in networks and optimality of proper signaling.
tRNA Core Hypothesis for the Transition from the RNA World to the Ribonucleoprotein World
Authors: De Farias Savio , Rêgo Thais , José Marco
Published: March 2016

Herein we present the tRNA core hypothesis, which emphasizes the central role of tRNAs molecules in the origin and evolution of fundamental biological processes. tRNAs gave origin to the first genes (mRNA) and the peptidyl transferase center (rRNA), proto-tRNAs were at the core of a proto-translation system, and the anticodon and operational codes then arose in tRNAs molecules. Metabolic pathways emerged from evolutionary pressures of the decoding systems. The transitions from the RNA world to the ribonucleoprotein world to modern biological systems were driven by three kinds of tRNAs transitions, to wit, tRNAs leading to both mRNA and rRNA.
Effects of Plasma ZrN Metallurgy and Shot Peening Duplex Treatment on Fretting Wear and Fretting Fatigue Behavior of Ti6Al4V Alloy
Authors: Tang Jingang , Liu Daoxin , Zhang Xiaohua , Du Dongxing , Yu Shouming
Published: March 2016

A metallurgical zirconium nitride (ZrN) layer was fabricated using glow metallurgy using nitriding with zirconiuming prior treatment of the Ti6Al4V alloy. The microstructure, composition and microhardness of the corresponding layer were studied. The influence of this treatment on fretting wear (FW) and fretting fatigue (FF) behavior of the Ti6Al4V alloy was studied. The composite layer consisted of an 8-μm-thick ZrN compound layer and a 50-μm-thick nitrogen-rich Zr–Ti solid solution layer. The surface microhardness of the composite layer is 1775 HK0.1. A gradient in cross-sectional microhardness distribution exists in the layer. The plasma ZrN metallurgical layer improves the FW resistance of the Ti6Al4V alloy, but reduces the base FF resistance. This occurs because the improvement in surface hardness results in lowering of the toughness and increasing in the notch sensitivity. Compared with shot peening treatment, plasma ZrN metallurgy and shot peening composite treatment improves the FW resistance and enhances the FF resistance of the Ti6Al4V alloy. This is attributed to the introduction of a compressive stress field. The combination of toughness, strength, FW resistance and fatigue resistance enhance the FF resistance for titanium alloy.
Influence of Carbon Nanotube Clustering on Mechanical and Electrical Properties of Cement Pastes
Authors: Jang Sung-Hwan , Kawashima Shiho , Yin Huiming
Published: March 2016

Given the continued challenge of dispersion, for practical purposes, it is of interest to evaluate the impact of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) at different states of clustering on the eventual performance properties of cement paste. This study evaluated the clustering of MWCNTs and the resultant effect on the mechanical and electrical properties when incorporated into cement paste. Cement pastes containing different concentrations of MWCNTs (up to 0.5% by mass of cement) with/without surfactant were characterized. MWCNT clustering was assessed qualitatively in an aqueous solution through visual observation, and quantitatively in cement matrices using a scanning electron microscopy technique. Additionally, the corresponding 28-day compressive strength, tensile strength, and electrical conductivity were measured. Results showed that the use of surfactant led to a downward shift in the MWCNT clustering size distribution in the matrices of MWCNT/cement paste, indicating improved dispersion of MWCNTs. The compressive strength, tensile strength, and electrical conductivity of the composites with surfactant increased with MWCNT concentration and were higher than those without surfactant at all concentrations.
Aqueous-Based Coaxial Electrospinning of Genetically Engineered Silk Elastin Core-Shell Nanofibers
Authors: Zhu Jingxin , Huang Wenwen , Zhang Qiang , Ling Shengjie , Chen Ying , Kaplan David
Published: March 2016

A nanofabrication method for the production of flexible core-shell structured silk elastin nanofibers is presented, based on an all-aqueous coaxial electrospinning process. In this process, silk fibroin (SF) and silk-elastin-like protein polymer (SELP), both in aqueous solution, with high and low viscosity, respectively, were used as the inner (core) and outer (shell) layers of the nanofibers. The electrospinnable SF core solution served as a spinning aid for the nonelectrospinnable SELP shell solution. Uniform nanofibers with average diameter from 301 ± 108 nm to 408 ± 150 nm were obtained through adjusting the processing parameters. The core-shell structures of the nanofibers were confirmed by fluorescence and electron microscopy. In order to modulate the mechanical properties and provide stability in water, the as-spun SF-SELP nanofiber mats were treated with methanol vapor to induce β-sheet physical crosslinks. FTIR confirmed the conversion of the secondary structure from a random coil to β-sheets after the methanol treatment. Tensile tests of SF-SELP core-shell structured nanofibers showed good flexibility with elongation at break of 5.20% ± 0.57%, compared with SF nanofibers with an elongation at break of 1.38% ± 0.22%. The SF-SELP core-shell structured nanofibers should provide useful options to explore in the field of biomaterials due to the improved flexibility of the fibrous mats and the presence of a dynamic SELP layer on the outer surface.
Fed-Batch Production of Bacterial Ghosts Using Dielectric Spectroscopy for Dynamic Process Control
Authors: Meitz Andrea , Sagmeister Patrick , Lubitz Werner , Herwig Christoph , Langemann Timo
Published: March 2016

The Bacterial Ghost (BG) platform technology evolved from a microbiological expression system incorporating the ϕX174 lysis gene E. E-lysis generates empty but structurally intact cell envelopes (BGs) from Gram-negative bacteria which have been suggested as candidate vaccines, immunotherapeutic agents or drug delivery vehicles. E-lysis is a highly dynamic and complex biological process that puts exceptional demands towards process understanding and control. The development of a both economic and robust fed-batch production process for BGs required a toolset capable of dealing with rapidly changing concentrations of viable biomass during the E-lysis phase. This challenge was addressed using a transfer function combining dielectric spectroscopy and soft-sensor based biomass estimation for monitoring the rapid decline of viable biomass during the E-lysis phase. The transfer function was implemented to a feed-controller, which followed the permittivity signal closely and was capable of maintaining a constant specific substrate uptake rate during lysis phase. With the described toolset, we were able to increase the yield of BG production processes by a factor of 8–10 when compared to currently used batch procedures reaching lysis efficiencies >98%. This provides elevated potentials for commercial application of the Bacterial Ghost platform technology.
Mineralogical Diversity in Lake Pavin: Connections with Water Column Chemistry and Biomineralization Processes
Authors: Miot Jennyfer , Jézéquel Didier , Benzerara Karim , Cordier Laure , Rivas-Lamelo Sara , Skouri-Panet Fériel , Férard Céline , Poinsot Mélanie , Duprat Elodie
Published: March 2016

As biominerals are good tracers of microbial interactions with the environment, they may provide signatures of microbial evolution and paleoenvironmental conditions. Since modern analogues of past environments help with defining proxies and biosignatures, we explored microbe mineral interactions in the water column of a maar lake, located in France: Lake Pavin. This lake is considered as a potential Precambrian ocean analogue, as it is ferruginous and meromictic, i.e., stratified with a superficial O2-rich layer (mixolimnion) and a deeper permanently anoxic layer (monimolimnion). We combined bulk chemical analyses of dissolved and particulate matter in combination with electron microscopy analyses of the particulate matter at different depths along the water column. The mineralogy changed along with water chemistry, and most of the minerals were intimately associated with microorganisms. Evolution of the redox conditions with depth leads to the successive precipitation of silica and carbonates, Mn-bearing, Fe-bearing and S-containing phases, with a predominance of phosphates in the monimolimnion. This scheme parallels the currently-assessed changes of microbial diversity with depth. The present results corroborate previous studies that suggested a strong influence of microbial activity on mineralogical diversity through extracellular and intracellular biomineralization. This paper reports detailed data on mineralogical profiles of the water column and encourages extended investigation of these processes.