No.

Titles / Abstracts / Authors

Full Text

No.

1

Detoxification of Dietary Lead by Methionine and Garlic in Rabbits

Shehata, S.A.

Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt.

sashehata@zu.edu.eg

Abstract: This work was carried out to evaluate the ability of methionine or garlic on detoxification of lead acetate in rabbit diet. Two experiments were carried out. The period of each experiment was 7 weeks. In the 1^st experiment, sixty growing New-Zealand White (NZW) male rabbits were assigned to four experimental diets (15 in each). The 1^st diet served as control, the 2^nd one was contaminated with 0.50% lead acetate and the other experimental diets contained the same level of lead acetate plus 0.08% and 0.16% DL-methionine, respectively. In the 2^nd experiment, seventy five growing NZW male rabbits were assigned to five experimental diets (15 in each). The 1^st diet served as control, the 2^nd one was contaminated with 0.50% lead acetate and the other experimental diets contained the same level of lead acetate plus 1, 2 and 3% garlic, respectively. Obtained results of 1^st and 2^nd experiments showed that addition of methionine or garlic improved significantly rabbit feed intake, daily body weight gain, feed conversion, digestibility of all nutrients and blood parameters including serum total protein, albumin, globulin, aspertate amino transferase and alanine aminotransferase. The dressing percentage significantly decreased in rabbits fed diet polluted with lead acetate only in comparison with fed lead plus additives and control. On the other hand the weight of kidneys and heart as % of live body weight increased significantly by lead acetate. The residue of lead in liver, kidneys and muscles reduced significantly by additives. The % of mortality rate was not affected in all tested groups in all trials. In conclusion, the addition of 0.08% methionine more than the optimium requirement or 2 % fresh garlic to growing rabbit diet was safe and practical method to minimize the lead toxicity in rabbit diet.

[Shehata, S.A. Detoxification of Dietary Lead by Methionine and Garlic in Rabbits. Nature and Science 2011; 9(12): 1-6]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net.

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.01

Keywords: Rabbits, lead, methionine, garlic, growth,digestibility, blood, residue.

Full Text

1

2

Effects of Mercuric Chloride on the Immunological, Hematological, Biochemical Parameters and Diseases Resistance of Nile Tilapia Challenged with Aeromnas hydrophila

El-Boshy, M.E¹ and Ramdan Taha^*2

¹Dept of Clinical Pathology, Fac. Vet. Med., Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt

²Dept of Clinical Pathology, Fac. Vet. Med., Suez Canal University, Egypt

ramadan_clinic@yahoo.com

Abstract: Mercuric and its compounds have been parts of widespread pollutant of water environment. In view of the possible hazards of mercuric salts, the present study was designed to assess the effect of mercuric on immunomodulation system, as well as hematological and serum biochemical changes, in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). The experimental fish were randomly divided into eight equal groups, each containing 80 fish. The first group (Gp.1) acted as a control. Gps.(2-4) were subjected throughout the experiment , 21 days to sublethal concentration of mercuric chloride 0.01, 0.05 and 0.1 ppm. Throughout the experiment, daily water mercuric concentration was estimated. At the end of experiment the non-specific defense mechanisms, cellular and humoral immunity, beside the total and differential leukocytic count were determined. Some selective biochemical parameters were estmiated (ALT, AST, creatinine, urea, uric acid, total protein, albumine and glucose). Also fish were challenged with A. hydrophila (0.4 X 10⁸ cells ml־¹) via intra-peritoneal injection and the mortality rate was recorded up to 10 day post-challenge. Lymphocyte transformation index, phagocytic activity percent, phagocytic index, total lymphocyte count, serum bactericidal activity and nitric oxide were significantly decreased after 21 day in all mercuric treatment groups when compared with control. Normocytic normochromic anemia and significant decreases of total plasma protein and albumin in dose depended manner in mercuric chloride exposed group. On the other hand, the mortality rate, total leukocytes and neutrophils count, liver transaminase enzymes, crearinine and uric acid, were significantly increased. Serum lysozyme and neutrophils adhesion cells were significantly decrease in higher dose exposed group (Gp.4) when compared with control group. It could be concluded that from this study the water born mercury pollution is highly toxic to Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) as well as has immune suppression and subsequently decrease diseases resistance in fresh water fishes.

[El-Boshy, M.E and Ramdan Taha. Effects of Mercuric Chloride on the Immunological, Hematological, Biochemical Parameters and Diseases Resistance of Nile Tilapia Challenged with Aeromnas hydrophila]. Nature and Science 2011; 9(12): 7-15]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net.

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.02

 Keyword: Immunological, Hematological, Biochemical Parameters and Diseases.

Full Text

2

3

Plant metabolites in response to pathogen and gene mutations

Xiaoli Gao^1&, Yanfeng Zhang^1&*, Yixiao Shen²

¹Department of Genetics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA

²Department of Food Science, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA

^&Present address: Biological Sciences Division, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA, USA

* zhangy11@gmail.com

Abstract: In response to environmental stresses, plants induce complex signal transduction cascades that can lead to dramatic changes in profiles of gene expression and metabolites. In some instances, plants respond to pathogen stress by increasing production of defense chemicals such as polyphenols. Normal cellular functions of polyphenols depend on methylation of their hydroxyl groups at specific positions via reactions catalyzed by O-methyltransferases (OMTs), some of which are induced in pathogen stress. OMTs belong to a group of enzymes involved in the methylation of hydroxyl groups from many compounds in both animals and plants. O-methylation catalyzed by OMTs involves the transfer of the methyl group from S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) to the hydroxyl group of an acceptor molecule, with the formation of its methylated derivative and S-adenosyl-L-homocysteine (SAH) as products. In this study, we summarized changes on plant secondary metabolites in response to pathogen stress and gene mutations, particularly to OMT mutants.

[Xiaoli Gao, Yanfeng Zhang, Yixiao Shen. Plant metabolites in response to pathogen and gene mutations. Nature and Science 2011;9(12):16-20]. (ISSN: 1545-0740).

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.03

Keywords: plant metabolites, plant diseases, plant-pathogen interactions, O-methyltransferase

Full Text

3

4

Anti-mutagenic Effects of Fennel Plant (Foeniculum vulgare Mill) Seeds and Pure Anethole: An in vitro Test on Mice

^1*Esmat A. Hassan; ²Abdel Aziz K. B.; ¹M. E. El-Awadi and ²M. R. Hanaa

¹Botany Department, ²Cell Biology Department, National Research Centre, Dokki, 12311, Cairo/Giza, Egypt

^{*esmat_hassan@yahoo.com}

Abstract: In the present study Willbutrin (bupropion hydrochloride) was employed to induce mutagenic/ carcinogenic features in mice, i.e. undesirable cell division and DNA damage. The repair actions of fennel dry seeds and its extracted bioactive substance anethole supplied to Willbutrin-treated- mice in a dietary regime were investigated. Male Swiss albino mice (25-30gm) orally received Willbutrin dose (0.4 mg/day) for 14 consecutive days showed significant increases in number and types of abnormalities in chromosomes of both somatic and germ cells in comparison to control .In germ cells , this was coincided with several aberration symptoms detected in head and tail of sperms. Chromosome aberrations were significantly declined in wellbutrin-treated -mice group received dry fennel seed diet in comparison to both the untreated control as well as to the single treatment with the Willbutrin substance. In case of pure anethole chromosome aberrations were significantly reduced specially in bone marrow, i.e. somatic cells. It is herein concluded that whole fennel seeds can be introduced as an additive in daily diet to avoid / protect and/or inhibit the initiation and development of certain cancer cells in vivo. In this respect, precise experiments on clinical level need to be carried out.

[Esmat A. Hassan, Abdel Aziz K. B., M. E. El-Awadi, and M. R. Hanaa Anti-Mutagenic Effects of Fennel Plant (Foeniculum vulgare Mill) Seeds and Pure Anethole: An In vitro Test on Mice] Nature and Science 2011; 9(12): 21-26]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net.

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.04

Key words: Anethole, antimutagenic, chromosomes, fennel, mice.

Full Text

4

5

Solid waste management and its Environmental impacts on human health in Juba town - South Sudan

John Leju CELESTINO LADU^{1, 2}; Xiwu LU³; Mohammed Ahmed Osman^3,

1. School of Energy and Environment ,Dept. of Environmental Science and Engineering Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, P. R. China

2. College of Natural Resources and Environmental Studies. Dept. of Environmental Studies, University of Juba, South Sudan

3. School of Energy and Environment ,Dept. of Environmental Science and Engineering Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, P. R. China

Corresponding Author: John Leju CELESTINO LADU. E-mail (johnleju@yahoo.com)

Telephone: +86 13815424736; +249912773265

Abstract: Urbanization and population growth are solely responsible for high increasing rate of solid waste in the urban areas and its proper management is a major problem of Municipal Corporation. Juba accordingly was the focus of intensive research. Interviews and observations were used to provide the necessary information. In this study, the sources and components of solid waste were identified, the quantity of solid waste disposed, methods of solid waste disposal and management evaluated, common diseases and disease vectors were assessed and the roles of public health department to solid waste management and workers general health condition were highlighted. Results showed that solid wastes in Juba area were complex in composition and quantity. Shortages of funds, inadequate number of workers, lack of transport and facilities contributed to the mismanagement of solid wastes. Diseases resulting from poor environmental sanitation constitute the bulk of the health problems in the study area. Communicable diseases were highly prevalent. Accordingly, problem of solid waste generation in Juba will continue to magnify and urban environment will uncontrollably deteriorate unless proper management is taken and the public cooperate with public health department in environmental sanitation.

[John Leju CELESTINO LADU; Xiwu LU; Mohammed Ahmed Osman. Solid waste management and its Environmental impacts on human health in Juba town - South Sudan. Nature and Science 2011; 9(12): 27-35]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net.

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.05

Keywords: Solid wastes generation, Urbanization, Disease vectors, Environmental sanitation; public health department.

Full Text

5

6

Hydrochemistry of a Tropical harbor: Influence of Industrial and Municipal inputs

BALOGUN Kayode James¹*, LADIGBOLU Ismail Adejare² and OLAJI Ebenezer Dayo²

¹Department of Biological Oceanography, Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research, P.M.B. 12729, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria

²Department of Chemical Oceanography, Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research, P.M.B. 12729, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria

*Corresponding Author’s E-mail: kayjaybal@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT: In recent times, pollution hazards of coastal waters have increased due to human activities including sand mining and dredging, industrial effluent discharges, indiscriminate dumping of sewage and domestic waste, use of detergents and heavy metals. A study was carried out to assess the extent of pollution caused by industrial and municipal discharges in the Lagos Harbour. Composite samples were collected monthly from the Harbour at seven locations from June to November, 2009 (covering parts of the rainy and dry seasons) and analyzed for some pollution parameters and trace elements [(Temperature, pH, Conductivity, Turbidity, Salinity, Total Dissolved Solids, Dissolved Oxygen, Alkalinity, Organic matters (BOD, COD), Nutrients (NO₃, PO₄ and SiO₂) and Heavy metals (Cr, Pb, Cd, Cu and Fe)]. Surface water of the Harbour was characterized by fairy constant temperature with a range of ( 25.67 – 28.33^oC), alkaline pH (7.70 – 8.42mg/l), brackish salinity (7.00 – 22.47‰), low BOD₂₀⁵ values (0.80 – 3.33mg/l), total dissolved solids(6.00 – 19.00mg/l), moderate dissolved oxygen content (4.13 – 7.60mg/l) which fell below FEPA limit of 10mg/l, alkalinity (8.00 – 15.33mg/l), low Nitrate value (0.08 – 0.12mg/l), moderate Phosphate (0.57 – 1.60mg/l) and moderately high Silicate values (1.27 – 9.23mg/l). Moderate concentration of heavy metals salts such as Cr (0.03 – 0.60mg/l), Pb (0.22 – 0.61mg/l), Cd (nd – 0.02mg/l, Fe (0.67 – 1.41mg/l) and high Cu values (4.53 – 5.55mg/l). Correlation between Salinity and heavy metals measured in this study were negative except Iron. Considering the values recorded for the pollution indicators, the harbor appears to be polluted. The temporal variability in some of these parameters could be attributed to influx of freshwater during the rainy season.

[BALOGUN Kayode James, LADIGBOLU Ismail Adejare and OLAJI Ebenezer Dayo. Hydrochemistry of a Tropical harbor: Influence of Industrial and Municipal inputs. Nature and Science 2011; 9(12): 36-43]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net.

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.06

Keywords: Pollution, Hydrochemistry, Harbour, Heavy metals

Full Text

6

7

Study on Troop Size and Troop Composition of Rhesus Monkey, Macaca mulatta (Zimmermann, 1758) in Saraswati Plantation Wildlife Sanctuary and Bir Sonty Reserve Forest, Kurukshetra, Haryana (India)

¹Girish Chopra, ²Ajay Kumar, ³Tarsem Kumar, ⁴Sanjeev Kamal Sharma and ⁵Anita Kadian

^1,2,3,4 Department of Zoology, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra-136119, India

⁵Forensic Science laboratory, Madhuban, Karnal-132001, Haryana (India)

²e-mail - ajayindorakuk@yahoo.com

Abstract: Rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta) is an old world monkey belongs to family- cercopithecidae. Rhesus monkey has a major role in biodiversity and in medical biological study such as surrogate mother, immunodeficiency disease, captive breeding, blood grouping and sequence of genome etc. (Zahn et al., 2007). The present study was carried out from February, 2008 to July, 2008 to record various troop size and troop composition of rhesus monkey in Saraswati Plantation Wildlife Sanctuary and Bir Sonty Reserve Forest, Kurukshetra, Haryana (India). Three troops (T-I, T-II, T-III) of rhesus monkey in Saraswati Plantation Wildlife Sanctuary and three troops (T-IV, T-V, T-VI) in Bir Sonty Reserve Forest were selected. The sighted individuals were categorized based on age-sex ratio viz., infants, juveniles, adult male and adult female followed by Singh (1981).The results indicated that the number of adults (males and females) remained constant during study period in all six selected troops of rhesus monkey. However, troop size swelled from 25 to 29 of troop-I, 35 to 38 of troop-II and 49 to 55 of troop-III. Similarly, in Bir Sonty Reserve Forest, troop size swelled from 45 to 49 of troop-IV, 48 to 54 of troop-V and 42 to 45 troop-V due to addition of newly born young ones during breeding period of rhesus monkey. The average age-sex ratio varied from a minimum of 2.40 in troop I to a maximum of 3.16 in troop II.

[Girish Chopra, Ajay Kumar, Tarsem Kumar, Sanjeev Kamal Sharma and Anita Kadian. Study on Troop Size and Troop Composition of Rhesus Monkey, Macaca mulatta (Zimmermann, 1758) in Saraswati Plantation Wildlife Sanctuary and Bir Sonty Reserve Forest, Kurukshetra, Haryana (India). Nature and Science 2011; 9(12): 44-49]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net.

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.07

Keywords- Rhesus monkey, troop size and troop composition, Sanctuary.

Full Text

7

8

In vitro and in vivo studies for Evaluation the Genotoxicity of Mancopper

Ayman A. Farghaly, Mona A. M. Abo-Zeid*, Souria M. Donya, Fawzia A. Aly and Aziza A. Ibrahim

Genetics and Cytology Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Division, National Research Center, El-Behooth St. 31, Dokki 12622, Cairo, Egypt.

*Corresponding Author: monaabozeid@yahoo.com

Abstract: The genotoxic effects of Mancopper, a widely used fungicide of the ethylene-bis-dithiocarbamate (EBDC) group, were studied. The cytogenetic parameters, chromosome aberrations and sister chromatid exchanges (SCEs) were the main cytogenetic assays used in this study in vitro and in vivo on Swiss albino male mice. Mice splenocytes were cultured in vitro after 24 h exposure to Mancopper (Conc. 10^-3 to 10^-7 M/ml). The percentage of cell viability was increased gradually with concentration decreasing from 10^-3 to 10^-7. It reached 82.48% in the cultures treated with 10^-7 M Mancopper /ml medium compared to 91.5% in the non- treated cultures. The concentrations 10^-7, 10^-6, 10^-5 M and 5x10^-5 M Mancopper/ ml medium induced chromosome aberrations and (SCEs) in cultured splenocytes in a concentration dependent manner (p<0.01). For in vivo studies, mice were orally treated by gavage with 10, 20 and 40 mg Mancopper/ kg b. wt for 24 h, the chromosome aberrations and SCEs were observed to be increased gradually with dose increasing. Multiple injections with 40 mg Mancopper/ kg b. wt for another 3 and 7 days consecutively, increased the percentages of chromosome aberrations in bone- marrow cells and spermatocytes. The results indicate that the herbicide Mancopper is genotoxic in mice somatic and germ cells under the circumstances tested. We recommend using natural compounds in agriculture rather than these fungicides. [Nature and Science 2011;9(12):50-56]. (ISSN: 1545-0740).

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.08

Key words: Mancopper, in vitro, in vivo, Mice, Chromosome aberrations, SCE's

Full Text

8

9

Nitric oxide levels in sustained virological response to peglyated-interferon-alpha-2b plus ribavirin before and after treatment in Egyptian patients with chronic hepatitis C 

El-Shahat A. Toson¹, Mahmoud M. EL-Bendary², Hatem A. El-mezayen^3,* and Heba A. Sahyon¹

¹Chemistry Department (Biochemistry Division), Mansoura University, Egypt

²Tropical Medicine Department, Mansoura University, Egypt

³Chemistry Department (Biochemistry Division), Helwan University, Egypt

Email: hatem_mezayen@yahoo.com

Abstract: Background: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infects an estimated 200 million persons worldwide and thus represents a viral pandemic. Egypt has a high prevalence of HCV especially genotype 4a. The standard pharmacological treatment for HCV infection is pegylated-interferon (INF) α and ribavirin. NO is one of the most versatile mediators in the control of viral infections as well as in the pathogenesis of many human infectious and inflammatory diseases. NO has a role in host defense in the normal liver, but may act in cancer promotion by stimulating aberrant differentiation of the cells and angiogenesis, and inducing tissue DNA damage. The role of nitric oxide (NO) in infectious diseases is gaining attention because of its antiviral effects. Method: Fifty two patients with chronic HCV genotype 4 treated with pegylated interferon (IFN) alpha-2a plus ribavirin underwent blood tests, assessment of serum level of NO and serum GGT before and after 6 months of treatment. Results: The pre-treatment serum NO level was significantly higher [28.97 (16.41 – 43.08) µmol/L] when compared to sustained virological responders (SVR) [8.55 (4.15 – 13.18)] and relapsers [5.14 (5.14 – 12.82)]. Also, the serum GGT (U/L) level was significantly higher in pretreatment [23.20 (9.88 – 75.50)] compared to SVR [17.11 (2.94 - 45.47)] and relapsers [21.85 (9.88 - 75.15)]. In ROC analysis, the serum NO was discriminate F1 versus F2F3 by area under curve 0.6. In conclusion: In patients with chronic hepatitis C, nitric oxide levels may be associated with the outcome of pegylated-IFN-α 2b plus ribavirin treatment.

[Elshahat A. Toson, Mahmoud M. EL-Bendary, Hatem A. El-mezayen and Heba A. Sahyon. Nitric oxide levels in sustained virological response to peglyated-interferon-alpha-2b plus ribavirin before and after treatment in Egyptian patients with chronic hepatitis C. Nature and Science 2011;(9):57-63]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.09

Keywords: HCV, pegylated-INF-α2b, ribavirin, nitric oxide, GGT, SVR, relapsers.

Full Text

9

10

A high-throughput microtiter plate based method for the quantitative measurement of cyanogenesis (rate of formation of HCN)

Stephen Abban^1,2*, Line Thorsen¹, Leon Brimer²

1. Department of Food Science, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark

2. Department of Veterinary Disease Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark. sabban@life.ku.dk, lbr@life.ku.dk

Abstract: Food crops containing cyanogenic glycosides abound in nature and form part of the basic staple for millions of people. Several attempts at devising analytical systems that can be used to measure the cyanogens breakdown rates for instance during detoxifying fermentations of food and feedstuff have been made, but with limited success. The present method is an improvement and modification of some previously developed systems for the quantitative determination of cyanogens. The new methods is a high throughput system allowing both screening of food samples for cyanogen presence and the determination of degrading activity respectively.

[Stephen Abban, Line Thorsen, Leon Brimer. A high-throughput microtiter plate based method for the quantitative measurement of cyanogenesis (rate of formation of HCN). Nature and Science 2011;9(12):64-68]. (ISSN: 1545-0740).

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.10

Key words: cyanogenesis, cyanogenic glycosides, quantification, screening, microtiter plate

Full Text

10

11

Dietary Items and Feeding Habits of Sompat Grunt Pomadasys jubelini (Cuvier, 1830)

Fatimat Adenike Adebiyi *

Department of Marine Science, Faculty of Science, University of Lagos, Akoka, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria. adebiyi_fatima@yahoo.com

Abstract: Investigation on dietary items and feeding habits of the sompat grunt Pomadasys jubelini off Lagos coast, Nigeria was carried out in order to identify the dietary items of P. jubelini and determine its feeding habits. The analysis of stomach content was done by numeric, occurrence and volumetric methods. The results showed that the dietary items of P. jubelini were molluscs, crustaceans, fish, annelids and algae. P. jubelini had molluscs and crustaceans as the main dietary items which accounted for 44.0% and 41.1% by number, 53.2% and 72.7% by occurrence and 32.0% and 48.6% by volume respectively. P. jubelini is a non-piscivorous predatory fish which feeds mainly on other macroscopic animals other than fish. This information will contribute to existing knowledge of the fish biology of P. jubelini with particular reference to feeding and will be useful for aquaculture and fishery management of P. jubelini.

[Fatimat Adenike Adebiyi. Dietary Items and Feeding Habits of Sompat Grunt Pomadasys jubelini (Cuvier, 1830 Nature and Science 2011;9(12):69-75]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.11

Key words: dietary items, feeding habits, Lagos coast, Pomadasys jubelini, sompat grunt, stomach content.

Full Text

11

12

Impact of marijuana smoking on liver and sex hormones: Correlation with oxidative stress

El-Shahat A. Toson

Chemistry Department (Biochemistry Division), Faculty of Science (Damietta), Mansoura University, Egypt. eatoson@yahoo.com

Abstract: In recent years, there has been a dramatic increase in the number of marijuana users. Also, in the past two decades it was found that cannabinoids present in marijuana exert their biological effects via cannabinoids receptors CB1 and CB2. Such receptors act as crucial mediators in a variety of pathophysiological conditions including liver. This is because, a three-fold increase in CB1 receptors on isolated vascular endothelial cells was detected in cirrhotic human livers. Moreover, the liver plays a major role in the catabolism of the steroid hormones. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine whether marijuana smoking can participates in liver damage and, therefore, in sex hormones abnormalities and/or oxidative stress, or not. In this study a group of marijuana smokers (n=90) with no history of liver diseases in addition to 25 of the healthy individuals with matched age and sex to that of the smoker group. In sera of marijuana smokers, the mean GGT activity was 86.6% higher than that of the control group and that of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was 121.7% higher than that of the nonsmokers^, group. In addition, the total bile acids, which were synthesized from cholesterol in the liver, as well as the acetyl cholinesterase (AChE) activity were 39.2% higher and 11.3% lower than those of the corresponding control values, respectively. However the mean nitric oxide level was dramatically increased in sera of marijuana smokers (210.8%), the C-reactive protein level was only 40 % higher in sera of marijuana smokers compared with those of the control group. Also, the mean SGPT activity was 19.4 % and that of bilirubin level was 39.1 % higher in sera of the smoker group than those of the healthy control group. With respect to the effect of the marijuana smoke on testosterone and its trophic pituitary hormone; luteinizing hormone, their levels were lowered by not less than 48.7% and 14.5% compared to those of the healthy control group, respectively. Moreover, the markers of the oxidative stress; namely glutathione (GSH), the total antioxidants capacity (TAC) and malondialdehyde (MDA), the first two were significantly reduced and the latter was elevated compared with those of the control group. Finally, negative correlations were found between testosterone and ALP, GGT and NO with a stronger negative correlation between the latter and testosterone. On the other hand, positive correlations were found between NO and both GGT and ALP with the strongest one between the latter and NO. Also, a positive correlation was found between GGT and ALP. These negative and positive correlations may lead one to conclude that marijuana smoke may participate in both liver and testicular damage via NO and its related radicals-dependent mechanisms.

[El-Shahat A. Toson. Impact of marijuana smoking on liver and sex hormones: Correlation with oxidative stress. Nature and Science 2011;9(12):76-87]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net.

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.12

Keywords: marijuana; smoking; liver; sex hormones; correlation; oxidative stress

Full Text

12

13

Biochemical studies on patients with Gallstones

El-Shahat A. Toson and Marihan A.Helal

Chemistry department (biochemistry division), Faculty of science(Damietta), Mansoura University, Egypt.

Abstract: Chemical composition of gall stones is essential for aetiopathogensis of gallstone disease. We have reported quantitative chemical analysis of total cholesterol bilirubin, calcium, total cholesterol, total bilirubin, triglycerides, phospholipids, bile acids and soluble proteins in 90 gallstones from Gastroenterology Center, Mansoura, of biliary calculi (35 cholesterol, 30 mixed and 25 pigment) retrieved from surgical operation of 90 patients. Total cholesterol as the major component and total bilirubin, phospholipids, triglycerides, bile acids, soluble protein, calcium as minor components were found in all types of calculi. The cholesterol stones had higher content of total cholesterol and phospholipids compared to mixed and pigment stones. The mixed stones had triglycerides than to cholesterol and pigment stones. The pigment stones were richer in total bilirubin; bile acids, calcium, and soluble protein compared to cholesterol and mixed stones. [El-Shahat A. Toson and Marihan A.Helal. Biochemical studies on patients with Gallstones. Nature and Science 2011;9(12):88-93]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.13

Key words Gallstone, Bile acid, phospholipids, Triglyceride, bilirubin.

Full Text

13

14

Nitric oxide levels in sustained virological response to peglyated-interferon-alpha-2b plus ribavirin before and after treatment in Egyptian patients with chronic hepatitis C 

El-Shahat A. Toson¹, Mahmoud M. EL-Bendary², Hatem A. El-mezayen^3,* and Heba A. Sahyon¹

¹Chemistry Department (Biochemistry Division), Mansoura University, Egypt

²Tropical Medicine Department, Mansoura University, Egypt

³Chemistry Department (Biochemistry Division), Helwan University, Egypt

Email: hatem_mezayen@yahoo.com

Abstract: Background: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infects an estimated 200 million persons worldwide and thus represents a viral pandemic. Egypt has a high prevalence of HCV especially genotype 4a. The standard pharmacological treatment for HCV infection is pegylated-interferon (INF) α and ribavirin. NO is one of the most versatile mediators in the control of viral infections as well as in the pathogenesis of many human infectious and inflammatory diseases. NO has a role in host defense in the normal liver, but may act in cancer promotion by stimulating aberrant differentiation of the cells and angiogenesis, and inducing tissue DNA damage. The role of nitric oxide (NO) in infectious diseases is gaining attention because of its antiviral effects. Method: Fifty two patients with chronic HCV genotype 4 treated with pegylated interferon (IFN) alpha-2a plus ribavirin underwent blood tests, assessment of serum level of NO and serum GGT before and after 6 months of treatment. Results: The pre-treatment serum NO level was significantly higher [28.97 (16.41 – 43.08) µmol/L] when compared to sustained virological responders (SVR) [8.55 (4.15 – 13.18)] and relapsers [5.14 (5.14 – 12.82)]. Also, the serum GGT (U/L) level was significantly higher in pretreatment [23.20 (9.88 – 75.50)] compared to SVR [17.11 (2.94 - 45.47)] and relapsers [21.85 (9.88 - 75.15)]. In ROC analysis, the serum NO was discriminate F1 versus F2F3 by area under curve 0.6. In conclusion: In patients with chronic hepatitis C, nitric oxide levels may be associated with the outcome of pegylated-IFN-α 2b plus ribavirin treatment.

[Elshahat A. Toson, Mahmoud M. EL-Bendary, Hatem A. El-mezayen and Heba A. Sahyon. Nitric oxide levels in sustained virological response to peglyated-interferon-alpha-2b plus ribavirin before and after treatment in Egyptian patients with chronic hepatitis C. Nature and Science 2011;9(12):94-100]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net.

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.14

Keywords: HCV, pegylated-INF-α2b, ribavirin, nitric oxide, GGT, SVR, relapsers.

Full Text

14

15

An Analytical Study for Estimation the Agricultural Unemployment in Egypt

EmanAbd-Elghfour Ahmed, Enaam Abd El-Fattah Mohamed and Mohy El-Din M. Kh. El-Begawy

Department of Economics, National Research Center, Dokki, Giza, Egypt

Abstract: Egyptian agricultural sector captures an important situation, and comes in the second order after services sector in employing labor force, especially, household labor, it can be said that human labor input has affected the structural changes with economic liberalization policy in Egypt, that has direct effects on the structure of labor market. The research problem of this research can be summarized in the difficulty to estimate the agricultural labor force, and the difficulty to estimate unemployment in the agricultural sector. So the objective of the research is to find a method of estimation labor force and the unemployment rate in the agricultural sector. To achieve objective of the research, quadratic expenditure system (QES) was estimated, and data were collected from different sources to cover the period subject to the study (1990-2009). The study used three functional form of (QES) model, and chose the model that is listed in equation (1) according to the log likelihood function that was a minimum to equation (1). The results indicated that, expenditure on the leisure for agricultural labor came in the fourth order, among food, nonfood, and services good, and there was a negative relation between labor wage and the demand for leisure, so increasing in labor wage will lead to decreasing in the demand for leisure and increasing labor supply. Labor supply according to (QES) model reached about 5.64 million laborers, while the demand for labor reached about 4.96 million laborers; this mean there is 0.684 million laborers don’t work, so the unemployment rate reached about 12.06% as average of the period (1990-2009). Finally some recommendations were introduced via research to raise agricultural employment, i.e., reclamation new land, expanding in cultivation crops that have intensity of labor, adoption technology encourage labor intensity; furthermore expanding the agricultural projects, i.e., small rural industrial.

[EmanAbd-Elghfour Ahmed, Enaam Abd El-Fattah Mohamed and Mohy El-Din M. Kh. El-Begawy. An Analytical Study for Estimation the Agricultural Unemployment in Egypt]. Nature and Science 2011; 9(12):101-108]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net.

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.15

Keyword: Analytical, Study, Estimation the Agricultural Unemployment.

Full Text

15

16

A COMPARATIVE SURFACE-ARCHITECHTURAL STUDY OF “SNOUT EPIDERMIS” OF SOME OF THE HILL-STREAM FISHES: A SCANNING ELECTRON MICROSCOPIC INVESTIGATION.

S. C. Joshi, Ila Bisht and S. K. Agarwal

Department of zoology, Kumaun University, S.S.J. Campus, Almora – 263 601, India. Sureshjoshi2007@yahoo.com joshi.drsuresh301@gmail.com

Abstract: Various cellular components in the epidermis of snout of G. gotyla, G. pectinopterus and P. sulcatus have been characterized by using scanning electron microscopy techniques in an attempt to understand their functional significance in relation to friction. The epidermis is differentiated into rough and smooth in G. pectinopterus and P. sulcatus and is smooth only in G. gotyla. The rough epidermis consists of the epithelial cells. The smooth epidermis in addition to these cells type also possesses mucous cells in the all three fishes. The surface of rough epidermis and smooth epidermis of P. sulcatus and G. pectinopterus are keratinized in nature. In the smooth epidermis the mucous cell apertures are interspersed between the epithelial cells in these fishes. In the rough epidermis, the epithelial cell surfaces are modify into epidermal growth the unculi. The rough epidermis of mid dorsal part of snout possesses epidermal tubercles. The base of each tubercle is broad, some poorly developed taste buds are describe in the snout of P. sulcatus.In G. pectinopterus large numbers of unculiferus plaques are present all aver the snout. These plaques are separated each other by epidermal furrow. The presence of these plaques is probably an adaptation to the peculiar digging mode of life of this fish as surface can better protect from wear and tear, providing hardness, durability and mechanical strength than that of glandular epidermis. Taste buds assist fish in the location of food and in the analysis of chemical structures in the epidermis of snout of all the three fishes under present investigation may compensate for reduce eyes in the hill-stream fishes.The presence of a very thick coat of mucus over the snout epidermis if compared to that of its general body epidermis in G. gotyla that is liable to more frictional force. When the fish swims upstream is significant. This may provide sufficient lubrication to reduce the frictional stress between the body surface and the water current and may protect the epidermis from wear and tear the protective role of epidermis modification acting as first line of defence against the colonization of pathogens.

[S. C. Joshi, Ila Bisht and S. K. Agarwal. A COMPARATIVE SURFACE-ARCHITECHTURAL STUDY OF “SNOUT EPIDERMIS” OF SOME OF THE HILL-STREAM FISHES: A SCANNING ELECTRON MICROSCOPIC INVESTIGATION. Nature and Science 2011; 9(12):109-115]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net. 16

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.16

Key words: Hill-Stream Fishes, Epidermis, snout and SEM

Full Text

16

17

Effect of Mineral Fillers on Rice Straw Fiber/High Density Polyethylene Composites

Abdel -Salam Sabah I.¹; Metwally M.¹, S.; Abdel- Hakim A, A.²; El Begawy S.³; Elshafie E., S.³

¹Department of chemistry, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar, Cairo, Egypt

² Polymer and pigments Department, National Research Center, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt.

³ Science &Technology Center of Excellence, Ministry of Military Production, Cairo, Egypt

emadsobhy2007@gmail.com

Abstract: Natural fibers are low cost, high specific properties and renewable nature and more useful to be used as reinforcement in thermoplastic materials .Mineral fillers such as calcium carbonate, talc are also used to improve the physico-mechanical properties . Tensile strength, flexural strength, impact strength, hardness and water absorption properties were evaluated. The results indicated that the mineral fillers loading had significant effects on the mechanical properties of the prepared composites. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) was investigated. 10% of calcium carbonate improves the tensile strength properties .Addition of calcium carbonate and talc to rice straw fibers (RSF)/HDPE composites was found to improve the flexural strength .The hardness of the composites was also improved when mineral fillers were added .5% of talc improves the impact strength of the prepared composites. Scanning electron microscopy was investigated to the prepared composites and revealed good interfacial adhesion due to the maleated polyethylene which was used as coupling agent.

[Abdel -Salam Sabah I.; Metwally M., S.; Abdel- Hakim A, A.; El Begawy S.; Elshafie E., S. Effect of Mineral Fillers on Rice Straw Fiber/High Density Polyethylene Composites. Nature and Science 2011; 9(12):116-124]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net. 17

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.17

Keywords: Mineral Filler; Rice Straw Fiber; High Density Polyethylene

Full Text

17

18

Species Diversity and Community Structure of a Temperate Mixed Rhododendron Forest along an Altitudinal Gradient in West Siang District of Arunachal Pradesh, India

Sanjeeb Bharali ¹, Ashish Paul ², Mohamed Latif Khan ³, Lal Bihari Singha ^{4, *}

* Department of Forestry, North Eastern Regional Institute of Science & Technology, (Deemed University), Nirjuli – 791109 (Itanagar), Arunachal Pradesh, India. E-mail- sanjeebbharali@yahoo.co.in, Phone No. (+91) 9436094198

** Department of Forestry, North Eastern Regional Institute of Science & Technology, (Deemed University), Nirjuli – 791109 (Itanagar), Arunachal Pradesh, India. E-mail- ashishpaul1@gmail.com, Phone No. (+91) 9402617578

*** Department of Forestry, North Eastern Regional Institute of Science & Technology, (Deemed University), Nirjuli – 791109 (Itanagar), Arunachal Pradesh, India. E-mail- khanml@yahoo.com, Phone No. (+91) 9425280739

**** Department of Forestry, North Eastern Regional Institute of Science & Technology, (Deemed University), Nirjuli – 791109 (Itanagar), Arunachal Pradesh, India. E-mail- lbsingha@hotmail.com. Phone No. (+91) 9436228916

Abstract: Species diversity and community structure of a Rhododendron forest along an altitudinal gradient was studied through quadrat method and all important community parameters were worked out using standard procedures. A total of 72 species representing 58 genera belonging to 35 families were recorded from the three study stands at different altitudes. The species richness index of tree and shrub species was highest in Hanuman Camp (mid altitude) while, for herb it was highest in Shegong (lower altitude). The richness index of tree species shows a positive relation while the shrub and herb species have a negative relation with the altitudinal gradient. Hanuman Camp has highest tree species richness, tree density (individual ha^-1) and basal area (m² ha^–1) with Rhododendron grande as the dominant tree species. While Rhododendron kenderickii and Rhododendron sp. (seems to be a new species and nomenclature process is under process) dominates Shegong and Yarlung (Upper altitude) respectively. The α diversity of shrub and herb species was found to be much higher in Shegong compared to the other two study stands. The Shannon-Weiner diversity index of tree and shrub species shows a positive relation with increasing altitude while, herb species have a negative relation with altitude. The Simpson’s dominance index for tree was found highest in Shegong (0.08) while, it is similar (0.07) in both Hanuman Camp and Yarlung while the dominance index of shrub species have negative and the herb species have positive relation with the increasing altitude. The high similarity was found between Shegong and Hanuman Camp. Further it was found that most of the species exhibits clump or contagious distribution in all study stands. The present study suggested that the variation in species diversity and community structure of the Rhododendron forest in the three study stand is mainly regulated by the altitude which may be due to the difference in microclimate and edaphic factors.

[Sanjeeb Bharali, Ashish Paul, Mohamed Latif Khan, Lal Bihari Singha. Species Diversity and Community Structure of a Temperate Mixed Rhododendron Forest along an Altitudinal Gradient in West Siang District of Arunachal Pradesh, India. Nature and Science 2011; 9(12):125-140]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net.

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.18

Key words: altitude; diversity; species richness; microclimate; edaphic factors; Himalaya

Full Text

18

19

Bacteriological profile of blood cultures from children with presumed septicaemia in a tertiary hospital in Abeokuta, Nigeria

Babatunde. O. Motayo.^1*, P . Akinduti ², JosephI. Ogiogwa¹, Olusola A. Akingbade¹, Bukola W. Aboderin ¹, O. Adeyakinu ¹ and John A. Akinbo¹.

1. Medical Microbiology unit, Pathology department Federal Medical center Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, Nigeria.

2. Department of Vetenery Microbiology, College of Vetenery Medicine, University of Agriculture Abeokuta.

E- mail: babatundemotayo@yahoo.com. Tel: +2348062632071.

Abstract: Septicaemia is a common pediatric illness with severe morbidity and mortality particularly in neonates. Various bacterial agents are responsible for this severe clinical condition. Diagnosis of this condition is by blood culture and antibiotic susceptibility testing. A good knowledge of the local epidemiology of causative bacteria is essential because of time lost in turn around time. We have therefore reviwed all blood culture results of children aged 0 to 15 years between January 2010 to December 2010 with presumed septiceamia at the Federal Medical Center Abeokuta. Three hundered and forty one blood samples were cultured at the Medical Micrbiology laboratory, isolates were identified using standard procedure and sensitivity tested against common antibiotics. A 31.1% isolation rate was recorded for all samples ,with neonates accounting for 48(45.3%), followed by age 28 days to 1 year 20(18.9%) and >1<15 years 38(35.8%). Staphylococus aureus was the most frequently isolated organism with 44(41.5%) rate, Escherichia coli had 19(27.4%), Klebsiella sp 15(14.2%). The antibiotic with highest susceptiility was Gentamycin with 58.8%, followed by Amoxicillin/clavunalate (51.9%) isolates showed poor susceptibility results to chephalosporins. Sustainable antibiotic surveillance and good infection control practicses along with regular ESBL testing will help ensure better therapeutic success and improved antibiotic efficacy of peadiatric septiceamia in our Health institutions.

[Babatunde. O. Motayo, P . Akinduti, Joseph.I. Ogiogwa, Olusola.A. Akingbade, Bukola. W. Aboderin, O. Adeyakinu and John. A. Akinbo. Bacteriological profile of blood cultures from children with presumed septicaemia in a tertiary hospital in Abeokuta, Nigeria. Nature and Science 2011; 9(12):141-144]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net.

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.19

Key words: Septiceamia, pediatric, bacteria isolates, antibiotic susceptibility

Full Text

19

20

Effects of nonsteriodal aromatase inhibitor in sex reversal of Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) 

Eleraky Wafaa, Refat Nahla*, Abd Ellatif Mohamed**, Tahia Ahmed*** and Khedr Nasser*** 

Nutrition and Clinical Nutrition Dept., Pathology Dept.*

** Animal Wealth Development Dep., Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University

*** Nutrition and Clinical Nutrition Dept, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University

Abstract: In the present study, we investigate the efficacy of Fadrozole, a potent nonsteriodal aromatase inhibitor (AI) incorporated into the feed on sex reversal (Monosex population) of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Nile tilapia larvae were classified into eight groups, which fed diets contained different levels of Fadrozole (0, 50, 100, 200 mg/ kg) for 14 and 28 days, starting 7 days after hatching (dph). After 28 days, fries were transferred to tanks (80 liter). Fish were weight at 28 days and after 12 weeks. All growth parameters were calculated. Results of this study revealed that, groups treated with Fadrozole for 14 or 28 days recorded increases the proportion or percentage of males' production than control groups. While the groups fed high levels of Fadrozol (100 and 200 mg / kg) for 28 days produced the highest proportion (95% and 98%) of males' production than for 14 days. There were improvements in weight gain and feed conversion ratio with groups fed diets contained high levels of Fadrozole. The microscopical findings of Fadrozole treated tilapia revealed few numbers of true juvenile hermaphrodite larvae with both gonads. Chromatin nucleolar stages of oocytes were seen next to testicular tissue. The majority of tilapia was differentiated to testes which contained all spermatogenetic cells in the testicular lobules .Some tilapia showed ovary with chromatin nucleolar, perinucleolar and cortical alveoli formation stages of oocyte. The vitellogenic and ripe stages of oocyte were not detected. In conclusion, Fadrozol, nonsteriodal compound induces monosex population of Nile tilapia larvae through suppressing aromatase activity.

[Eleraky Wafaa, Refat Nahla, Abd Ellatif Mohamed, Tahia Ahmed and Khedr Nasser. Effects of nonsteriodal aromatase inhibitor in sex reversal of Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Nature and Science 2011; 9(12):145-150]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net.

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.20

Key words: Aromatase, Tilapia, Sexual differentiation, Growth.

Full Text

20

21

Evaluation of Effect of Antagonistic Fungi, and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) on Incidences of Some Disease of Hevea brasiliensis (Muell. Arg).

V.I.Omorusi, *Omo-Ikerodah, E.E., Mokwunye, M.U.B.

Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria, P.M.B. 1049, Iyanomo, Benin City.

* Corresponding author: E-mail: eomoikerodah@yahoo.com

Abstract: Evaluation of the effect of the use of Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and antagonistic fungi on the incidences of some diseases of Hevea brasiliensis (Muell.Arg.) was investigated. Saplings of RRIC45 were grown in heat sterilized soils inoculated with an AMF strains (Glomus deserticola) and soils not inoculated at all. In vitro assessment of the efficacy of three potential antagonists-Trichoderma, Penicillum and Aspergillus species against white root rot (Rigidoperus lignosus) fungus were also determined. Effects of AMF on Bird’s eye spot incited by Drechslera heveae, and Colletotrichum gloeosporioides leaf spot showed some level of bioprotection of the seedlings (P<0.05).Of the three antagonists,Trichoderma sp appeared most outstanding with 81.85% inhibitory rating against R. lignosus , than Penicillium sp (65.27%) and Aspergillus sp with no trace of inhibition. The results of the study are discussed.

[Omorusi, V.I, Omo-Ikerodah, E.E., Mokwunye, M.U.B. Evaluation of Effect of Antagonistic Fungi, and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) on Incidences of Some Disease of Hevea brasiliensis (Muell. Arg). Nature and Science 2011; 9(12):151-154]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net. 21

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.21

Key words: Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), antagonistic fungi, Hevea brasiliensis, Diseases

Full Text

21

22

Assessment of Hydrocarbon Utilization by Hybrids and Wild Type Saccharomyces spp. isolated from pawpaw fruit

A. A. Ibiene*, G. C. Iheanacho and P.O. Okerentugba

Department of Microbiology, University of Port Harcourt, P.M.B. 5323, Port Harcourt, Nigeria. ibieneaa@yahoo.com; +2348066720531

Abstract: Yeast, Saccharomyces sp., isolated from pawpaw fruit were mated to form hybrids and a comparative assessment of hydrocarbon utilization by the hybrids and the wild type Saccharomyces was carried out. A total of five isolates belonging to the genus Saccharomyces were studied. Mating experiment was conducted using Yeast Peptone Dextrose (YPD) agar. Hybrids (xcpI, xcpII and xcpIII) resulted in three out of the ten crosses. A hydrocarbon biodegradation set-up was used to compare hydrocarbon utilization by the hybrids and wild types for a period of 15 days. The order of percentage changes in the viable counts was - hybrid xcpII (14.5 %) > hybrid xcpI (11.2 %) > hybrid xcpIII (10.8 %). The reduction in pH values was slightly greater in hybrid biodegradation systems (7.4 - 6.5) than the corresponding wild types biodegradation systems (7.4-6.6). Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) shows that there was statistically significant difference (p<0.05) in the mean numbers of the viable cells growing in the various set-ups with the isolates, hybrids and the control. Differences in the pH values were however, not significant. Net hydrocarbon losses of 48.3%, 35.8% and 52.3% was recorded on day 15 for hybrids xcpI, xcpII and xcpIII respectively while corresponding wild type Saccharomyces recorded average net losses of 33.7%, 28.3% and 27.9%. On the whole, the hybrids proved to be more effective in hydrocarbon utilization.

[A. A. Ibiene, G. C. Iheanacho and P.O. Okerentugba. Assessment of Hydrocarbon Utilization by Hybrids and Wild Type Saccharomyces spp. isolated from pawpaw fruit. Nature and Science 2011; 9(12):155-159]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net. 22

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.22

Key words: Saccharomyces, hybrids, comparative assessment, hydrocarbon utilization

Full Text

22

23

Synthesis of GMA / PVA Cast Membrane Reinforced with Alumina for Fuel Cell Applications

M.M. El-Toony

National center for radiation research and technology, Atomic energy authority, Egypt, Cairo, Egypt

toonyoptrade@yahoo.com

Abstract: This work aims to synthesis low cost new membrane applied for generation of environmentally friends energy via fuel cell. Different ratio of glycidyl methacrylate to polyvinyl alcohol were used for membranes casting. Reinforcement of the membranes was carried out by alumina powdered with ten percent of the mixture cast. Gamma irradiation doses were applied on the cast mixture for compatiblization and finally cross-linking. Chemical properties of the prepared membranes were discussed using FTIR while mechanical characteristics were reviewed by measuring their hardness. Thermal behaviors of the prepared membranes were studied using thermal gravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and morphological structures were investigated via scan electron microscope (SEM). The membranes' water uptake were performed prior to evaluate their ion exchange capacities. The AC impedances were measured with different frequency values. The AC conductivities reached to 5.2 x 10^-2 simon/cm which confirmed the membranes usage in fuel cell applications. Raising up temperature to 80^oc increase the electrical conductivity to 9.6 x 10^-2 simon/cm which exceed that of Nafion by 62%. Chemical stability of the membranes assured their availability for such application.

[M.M. El-Toony. Synthesis of GMA / PVA Cast Membrane Reinforced with Alumina for Fuel Cell Applications]. Nature and Science 2011; 9(12):160-172]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net. 23

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.23

Key wards: GMA, PVA, cast, gamma irradiation, alumina, AC impedance, fuel cell.

Full Text

23

24

The Effect of Job Conscientiousness on Job Performance

Wafaa Fathi Sleem¹ and Neamat Mohmed El-Sayed²

¹Nursing Administration Department, Faculty of Nursing, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt

² Nursing Administration Department, Faculty of Nursing, Damnhore University, Damnhore, Egypt

dr_wafaasleem@yahoo.com; neamat_mohamed@yahoo.com

Abstract: Job conscientiousness used as a predictor of job performance, because of it is one of the Big Five dimensions that is good in all jobs. So, the study aimed to examine the relation between job conscientiousness and job performance of staff nurses at Mansoura Main University Hospital. All staff nurses (n=68) working in surgical units were included in the study .A descriptive correlation design was used. Data collected through two tools, the first consists of two parts, the first part was intended to collect individual characteristics of studied staff nurses, the second part was six factor personality questionnaire to measure job conscientiousness .The second tool was observation check list to measure job performance. The relation between job conscientiousness and job performance of staff nurses were no significant, positive correlation.

[Wafaa Fathi Sleem and Neamat Mohmed El-sayed. The Effect of Job Conscientiousness on Job Performance. Nature and Science 2011; 9(12):173-179]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net. 24

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.24

Keywords: Job Conscientiousness -Job Performance -Surgical units

Full Text

24

25

Self Care Management of School Age Diabetic Children

Azza Darwish¹, Ebtisam El-sayed², Thanaa El- Awany and Rasha El-Ashry

^1.Pediatric Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing , Alexandria university ,

^2.Pediatric Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing , Tanta university

ebtisamelsayed@yahoo.com

Abstract: Type 1 diabetes places major constraint on the lives of children and their families. The success of long term maintenance therapy for diabetes depends largely on the patient’s compliance with self care management. This study aimed to assess self care management of school age diabetic children. Descriptive study was conducted on sixty children, with type 1 DM attending or admitted to Diabetic outpatient clinic, and Inpatient diabetic unit of Pediatric department. Their age ranged between 7 to 11 years old. Data were collected by interview questionnaire sheet that included biosocial data of children and their mothers, care that provided to their diabetic children, and self care manegment. Observational checklist to assess mothers and children performance score related to monitoring of blood glucose level, urine analysis, and insulin administration. The results of the present study revealed that, there was significant correlation between diabetic children age and their self care management regarding self monitoring of blood glucose level, urine analysis ,and insulin injection, as older children were more compliance to diabetes self care management than younger children .On the contrary there was no significant correlation between children gender ,their birth order and self care management. The current results also showed that, mothers who had university education ,and housewife were more compliance to provide much care to their children. On the light of the findings results, it is recommended to establish and implement a health educational program to improve diabetic children knowledge and practice regarding all aspects of diabetes self care and proper management.

[Azza Darwish, Ebtisam El-sayed, Thanaa El- Awany and Rasha El-Ashry. Self Care Management of School Age Diabetic Children. Nature and Science 2011;9(12):180-189]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net. 25.

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.25

Key words: Self Care Management; School; Diabetic; Children

Full Text

25

26

Electrochemical techniques for measuring some trace heavy metals in Taps Water of Riyadh in Saudi Arabia

Sanaa Arab¹ and Asia Alshikh²

^1.Kingdom Of Saudi Arabia, Ministry of Higher Education, King Abdulaziz University, Deanship of Scientific Research, Girl’s College of Educational, Jeddah.^2.Kingdom Of Saudi Arabia, Ministry of Higher Education, Jizan University, Deanship of Scientific Research, Girl’s College of Educational .Jizan. Ziadahmed1020@hotmail.com

Abstract: The estimation of Pb, Cd, Cu, Zn, Fe, Se concentration in the taps water of the capital Riyadh in Kingdom Of Saudi Arabia city was accomplished using electrochemical methods. Also, chemical, physical and bacteriological Parameters were studied. The obtained results were lower than the average range of these Parameters in the maximum concentration as they were allowed to be by The World Health Organization (WHO).

[Sanaa Arab and Asia Alshikh. Electrochemical techniques for measuring some trace heavy metals in Taps Water of Riyadh in Saudi Arabia] Nature and Science 2011; 9(12):190-195]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net. 26

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.26

Keywords: Tap water; electrochemical ; Saudi ; trace heavy elements.

Full Text

26

27

Effect of GA₃ and Potassium Nitrate in Different Dates on Fruit Set, Yield and Splitting of Washington Navel Orange

^*Abd El-Rahman, G.F.; Hoda, M.Mohamed and Ensherah, A.H.Tayh

Citrus Department, Hort. Res. Instit., Agric. Res. Center, Giza, Egypt

*gamalelashmanty@yahoo.com

Abstract: Two concentrations of GA₃ were used alone or with 0.5% urea i.e. (50 and 100 ppm) and three levels of potassium nitrate (KNO₃₎ 2، 4 and 6% were tested as foliar sprays at different times i.e. first time application at full bloom stage , the second time application was at fruit diameter from 1.5-2.0 cm and (first and second time of application) for investigation their effects on fruit set, yield, fruit quality and splitting of 40-years-old Washington navel orange(Citrus Sinensis), trees budded on Sour Orange (Citrus aurantium, L.Obseck) rootstock during 2008 and 2009 seasons. Data indicated that, all treatments increased fruit set, yield and fruit quality and decreased fruit splitting as compared with control treatment. Data also revealed that, foliar sprays of trees by (GA₃ at 50 ppm) with or without 0.5% urea were superior for inducing the highest increase of fruit set and yield, in addition KNO₃ at 4% comparing with 2% and 6%. Also, KNO₃ treatments increased fruit size, peel thickness and juice acidity especially with high concentrations; on the other hand, the use of GA₃ at 50 or 100 ppm alone or with 0.5% urea increased fruit T.S.S and reduced nitrite and nitrate contents in fruit juice as compared with KNO₃ treatments. Moreover, it is noticed that trees sprayed at first application or first and second time of application gave the best results, while second application was the best for reducing fruit splitting. It could be recommended the best treatment for increasing yield and gave high fruit quality is GA₃ at 50 ppm with or without 0.5% urea at full bloom stage especially in respect with reducing nitrite and nitrate in fruit juice, and use KNO₃ 4% at the second time of application to reduce fruit splitting.

[Abd El-Rahman, G.F.; Hoda, M.Mohamed and Ensherah, A.H.Tayh. Effect of GA₃ and Potassium Nitrate in Different Dates on Fruit Set, Yield and Splitting of Washington Navel Orange] Nature and Science 2011; 9(12): 196-204]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net. 27

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.27

Key word: GA_3, Navel Orange, KNO_3, Fruit Set, Yield

Full Text

27

28

Coping With University Life and its Relationship with Academic Achievement for the Students of Menofia University

Ali O. M. Abdelatife

Department of House and Establishments Management, Faculty of Specific Education, Menofia University, Egypt

Abstract: This research aims at studying coping with university life and its relationship with academic achievement for the student of Menofia University. The research was conducted on a sample of Menofia University students including 144 mal and female students in four faculties (Specific Education, Engineering, Commerce and Home Economics ) during the second term .Students, marks in four the First term were taveu and the scale for coping with university life was applied to students and the socio-economic information form. The research concluded the following results: 1)There is no relationship between the socio-economic standard and coping with university life , 2)There are statistically significant difference between the socio-economic factor and academic achievement, 3)There are statistically significant difference between coping with university life and academic achievement, 4)There is no a relationship between parents, work and coping with university life, 5)There is a relationship between parents, work and academic achievement, 6) There are statistically significant difference between the educational level for the parents, educational and coping with university and 7)There are statistically significant difference between the parents, educational level and coping with university . The study recommended the necessity of coping with university life early and helping new Students to cope in order to achieve academic adjustment and excellence and facilitating hardships in front of Students since the Start of the academic year.

[Ali O. M. Abdelatife. Coping with University Life and its Relationship with Academic Achievement for the Students of Menofia University. Nature and Science 2011; 9(12):205-212]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net. 28

doi:10.7537/marsnsj091211.28

Keywords: University; Life; Relationship; Academic Achievement; Student

Full Text

28