Day Intervals (day + interval)

Distribution by Scientific Domains
Distribution within Medical Sciences


Selected Abstracts


Low sensitivity of retina to AMPA-induced calcification

JOURNAL OF NEUROSCIENCE RESEARCH, Issue 4 2003
Noemí Andrés
Abstract Glutamate is involved in most CNS neurodegenerative diseases. In particular, retinal diseases such as retinal ischemia, retinitis pigmentosa, and diabetic retinopathy are associated with an excessive synaptic concentration of this neurotransmitter. To gain more insight into retinal excitotoxicity, we carried out a dose,response study in adult rats using ,-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionic acid (AMPA), a glutamate analogue. AMPA intraocular injections (between 0.27 and 10.8 nmol) caused no morphologic modification, but a 10.8 + 21 nmol double injection in a 10-day interval produced a lesion characterized by discrete neuronal loss, astroglial and microglial reactions, and calcium precipitation. Abundant calcium deposits similar to those present in rat and human brain excitotoxicity or hypoxia-ischemia neurodegeneration were detected by alizarin red staining within the retinal surface and the optic nerve. Glial reactivity, associated normally with astrocytes in the nerve fiber, was assessed in Müller cells. GABA immunoreactivity was detected not only in neuronal elements but also in Müller cells. In contrast to the high vulnerability of the brain to excitotoxin microinjection, AMPA-induced retinal neurodegeneration may provide a useful model of low central nervous system sensitivity to excitotoxicity. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]


Development, validity and reliability of the food allergy independent measure (FAIM)

ALLERGY, Issue 5 2010
J. L. Van Der Velde
To cite this article: van der Velde JL, Flokstra-de Blok BMJ, Vlieg-Boerstra BJ, Oude Elberink JNG, DunnGalvin A, Hourihane JO'B, Duiverman EJ, Dubois AEJ. Development, validity and reliability of the food allergy independent measure (FAIM). Allergy 2010; 65: 630,635. Abstract Background:, The Food Allergy Quality of Life Questionnaire-Child Form, -Teenager Form and -Adult Form (FAQLQ-CF, -TF and -AF) have recently been developed. To measure construct validity in the FAQLQs, a suitable independent measure was needed with which FAQLQ scores could be correlated. However, in food allergy, no appropriate independent measure existed, which could be used for this purpose. Aims of the study:, The aim of this study was to describe the development of a Food Allergy Independent Measure Child-Form, -Teenager Form and -Adult Form (FAIM-CF, -TF and -AF) and to assess their validity and reliability. Methods:, The FAIMs were developed using previously established methodology to capture the patients' expectation of outcome (EO). Face validity was determined by expert opinion. FAIM questions showing no correlation to any potential items in the FAQLQs were considered irrelevant and eliminated. To measure test-retest reliability, one-hundred and one patients were included and completed the FAIM twice with a 10,14 day interval. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), Lin's concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) and Bland-Altman plots were used to assess test-retest reliability. Results:, Six FAIM questions were developed and considered relevant for the FAIM-CF and -AF, and five questions were relevant for the FAIM-TF. The FAIMs showed good reliability with ICCs and CCCs above 0.70 and with mean differences all close to zero. Conclusions:, Food allergy independent measures were developed for children, adolescents and adults and were shown to be valid, relevant and reliable. This supports the suitability of the FAIMs for evaluating construct validity. [source]


Mitigating Photosensitivity of Erythropoietic Protoporphyria Patients by an Agonistic Analog of ,-Melanocyte Stimulating Hormone,

PHOTOCHEMISTRY & PHOTOBIOLOGY, Issue 6 2009
Juergen H. Harms
Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is a rare hereditary disorder characterized by dermal accumulation of the photosensitizer protoporphyrin IX. Following sunlight exposure, the resulting photosensitivity is manifested first as pain, later as erythema, edema and dermal lesions. Afamelanotide (Nle4 -d-Phe7 -,-MSH), a synthetic analog of ,-melanocyte stimulating hormone and agonist of the melanocortin-1-receptor, promotes melanin synthesis, increasing skin pigmentation. This study examines the efficacy of afamelanotide in preventing symptoms in patients with EPP. A sustained-release subcutaneous implant of 20 mg afamelanotide was administered twice, with a 60-day interval to five EPP patients. Therapeutic efficacy was assessed by a photoprovocation test using standardized white light irradiation, melanin density (MD) determination and daily recording of sunlight exposure and symptoms. From Day 30 to Day 120 tolerance to photoprovocation significantly increased compared with baseline (P = 0.007) and skin MD was significantly higher than that recorded at baseline (P = 0.004). Except for two low-grade pain episodes, patients recorded no phototoxic events past Day 4 of treatment. Tolerance to natural sunlight was up to 24 times longer than prior to therapy. The findings demonstrate beneficial effects of afamelanotide in patients with EPP. Due to the limited number of patients enrolled and the design being an open-label study, confirmation by a large-scale trial is required. [source]


Seasonal Variation of Reproductive Performance, Foetal Development and Progesterone Concentrations of Sheep in the Subtropics

REPRODUCTION IN DOMESTIC ANIMALS, Issue 6 2008
A Ali
Contents The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of breeding season [late spring (LSP) vs winter (WIN)] on reproductive performances, foetal development and progesterone (P4) concentrations of sheep in the subtropics. Ewes of Farafra breed were exposed for mating in LSP (n = 79) and WIN (n = 45). Ultrasonographic examinations were performed at days 25, 45 and 75 of mating to estimate the pregnancy rate, incidence of twinning and percentage of foetal losses. Foetal growth rate was determined at 10-day interval, and blood samples were taken on days 0 (oestrus), 8, 18 of oestrous cycle and on days 30, 45, 60 and 90 of pregnancy for P4 analysis. The results showed that pregnancy and lambing rates were greater (p < 0.01) for ewes mated in LSP (93.7% and 92.4%) than for those mated in WIN (75.6% and 71.1%), respectively. There was no effect of season on the incidence of twinning (overall 19.1%) or the frequency of foetal losses (overall 7.3%). Transient reduction of placental size, foetal growth and P4 concentration was observed following LSP matings. In conclusion, pregnancy and lambing rates were higher following LSP matings. Summer heat stress of the late spring mated ewes transiently interferes with foetal growth and P4 concentrations. [source]


Unexpectedly frequent hepatitis B reactivation by chemoradiation in postgastrectomy patients,

CANCER, Issue 9 2004
Jason Chia-Hsien Cheng M.D., M.S.
Abstract BACKGROUND Postgastrectomy patients undergoing chemoradiation risk chemoradiation-induced liver disease (CRILD). The objectives of this study were to investigate dosimetric implications and assess biologic susceptibility to CRILD in these patients. METHODS Sixty-two patients with Stage IB,IV gastric/gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma without metastases underwent radical total/subtotal gastrectomy; regional lymph node dissection; and postoperative, adjuvant, concomitant chemoradiotherapy (CCRT). Among these, 8 patients developed CRILD (defined as Grade 3,4 liver toxicity), and 11 patients were chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) carriers (HBV+). Chemotherapy consisted of 1 cycle of etoposide, leucovorin, and 5-fluorouracil (ELF); followed by 5 weekly high doses of 5-fluorouracil (2000,2600 mg/m2) and leucovorin concurrent with radiotherapy (median dose, 45 grays [Gy] to the tumor bed/regional lymphatics); followed by 3 cycles of ELF separated by a 21-day interval. Patients were followed for , 4 months after CCRT. Patient-related and dosimetric factors were correlated with CRILD. RESULTS HBV+ status was the only independent factor associated with CRILD. HBV+ patients had a higher CRILD incidence (6 of 11 patients vs. 2 of 51 patients; P < 0.001). HBV-negative patients with CRILD were recipients of a higher mean liver dose (MLD) (23.8 Gy vs. 15.2 Gy; P = 0.009) and a higher volume fraction of liver that received > 30 Gy (36.5% vs. 19.7%; P = 0.009) compared with noncarriers without CRILD, but no MLD difference was found between HBV+ patients with or without CRILD. Moreover, in four of six carriers with CRILD, HBV infection was reactivated during CRILD. Two of the toxicities were fatal. CONCLUSIONS HBV carriers had a higher incidence of CRILD after postgastrectomy CCRT, probably related to HBV reactivation. Dosimetric parameters modulated the risk of CRILD in noncarriers, but not in carriers. These factors deserve attention in CRILD/HBV+ patients, and the underlying pathogenesis warrants investigation. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society. [source]


Treatment of Idiopathic Cutaneous Hyperchromia of the Orbital Region (ICHOR) with Intense Pulsed Light

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 6 2006
NATALIA CYMROT CYMBALISTA MD
BACKGROUND Idiopathic cutaneous hyperchromia of the orbital region (ICHOR) does not have a clear etiopathogenesis. Genetic factors, increased melanin, prominent vasculature, and eyelid skin slackness seem to be involved. OBJECTIVE To evaluate individuals with ICHOR clinically and histologically, before and after treatment with high-energy pulsed light (HEPL), considering epidermal and dermal melanin, in order to evaluate HEPL efficacy in clearing away ICHOR, and 1 month and 1 year later to check whether improvement was maintained. METHODS Twelve individuals with ICHOR underwent clinical and histological evaluation before and after HEPL application, with photographic comparison. They underwent one to four HEPL sessions on the lower eyelid at approximately 30-day intervals. Melanin quantification by area, before and after treatment was performed by digital image morphometry. RESULTS Eyelid skin was significantly lightened (p=.24), and was maintained 1 year later with no ICHOR reincidence. All individuals (100%) showed postinflammatory hyperchromia (average 6-month duration), while 58.33% presented hypochromia (7-month duration). There was significantly decreased epidermal and dermal melanin after treatment. CONCLUSION HEPL was shown to be useful in clearing up ICHOR. This was maintained after 1 year. Epidermal and dermal histopathology showed decreased melanin following treatment. Longer follow-up is needed to evaluate possible later recurrence of ICHOR. [source]


Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Dose-Response Study of the Safety and Efficacy of Botulinum Toxin Type A in Subjects with Crow's Feet

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 3 2005
Nicholas J. Lowe MD
Background Published evidence suggests that botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) is an effective treatment for crow's feet. However, few dose-ranging studies have been performed. Objectives To assess the safety and efficacy of a single treatment with one of four doses of BTX-A (Botox/Vistabel, Allergan Inc) compared with placebo for the improvement of crow's feet. Methods Subjects received a single bilateral treatment of 18, 12, 6, or 3 U of BTX-A or placebo injected into the lateral aspect of the orbicularis oculi muscle (parallel-group, double,blind design). Investigators and subjects rated crow's feet severity at maximum smile on day 7 and at 30-day intervals from days 30 to 180. Results As observed by both investigators and subjects, all doses of BTX-A resulted in improvements in crow's feet severity when compared with placebo. A dose-dependent treatment effect for efficacy was observed, with higher doses having an increased magnitude and duration of effect. However, a clear differentiation between the 18 U and 12 U doses was not apparent. Few adverse events were reported, with no statistically significant differences between BTX-A and placebo in the incidence of subjects experiencing adverse events. Conclusion BTX-A is safe and effective in decreasing the severity of crow's feet, with 12 U per side suggested as the most appropriate dose. THIS STUDY WAS FUNDED BY ALLERGAN, WHICH WAS ALSO INVOLVED IN THE DESIGN AND CONDUCT OF THE STUDY; COLLECTION, MANAGEMENT, ANALYSIS, AND INTERPRETATION OF THE DATA; AND PREPARATION, REVIEW, AND APPROVAL OF THE MANUSCRIPT. DRS. LOWE AND FRACZEK ARE PAID CONSULTANTS FOR ALLERGAN, DRS. KUMAR AND EADIE ARE EMPLOYEES OF ALLERGAN, AND DRS. LOWE AND KUMAR HOLD STOCK OPTIONS. [source]


Effect of weather factors on populations of Helicoverpa armigera moths at cotton-based agro-ecological sites

ENTOMOLOGICAL RESEARCH, Issue 1 2009
Ghulam Mustafa AHEER
Abstract Pheromone trapping was used to monitor populations of the moth Helicoverpa armigera at five cotton-based agro-ecological sites , river, vegetable, orchard, forest and clean cultivation (areas under only cotton cultivation) , in the Bahawalpur district, Pakistan. Three locations at each site were chosen and three pheromone traps at each location were installed in cotton fields. Moth catches were recorded at 15,20 day intervals from 24 October 2004 to 19 December 2006. In 2004, the river sites showed the maximum trapped population of H. armigera (0.22/trap) followed by 0.165 per trap at the vegetable sites. Orchard, clean cultivation and forest sites had zero moth catches. In 2005, the river sites again showed the highest trapped population (0.57/trap), followed by clean cultivation (0.45/trap), vegetable (0.44/trap), orchard (0.40/trap) and forest (0.29/trap). The moths appeared during July to December and March to May. In 2006, sites showed non-significant difference, with a population range of 0.47 to 0.97 moths per trap. On average, river sites peaked at 0.49 per trap, followed by vegetable (0.38), clean cultivation (0.47), orchard (0.35) and forest (0.25) sites. The peak was observed on 3 April 2006, and moths appeared during February to July and October to December. The minimum temperature in river, forest and clean cultivation sites; the maximum temperature in orchard sites; and the average temperature in river, orchard, forest and clean cultivation sites showed significant positive correlations with trapped moth populations. Relative humidity showed significant negative correlation with population at the orchard sites in 2005. All weather factors during 2004 and 2006 showed non-significant correlations with the moth populations. No model was found to be best fit by multiple linear regression analysis; however, relative humidity, minimum temperature, maximum temperature, minimum temperature and maximum temperature contributed 8.40, 10.23, 2.43, 4.53 and 2.53% to the population fluctuation of the moth at river, vegetable, orchard, forest and clean cultivation sites, respectively. [source]


Temporal and spatial variations in the discharge and dissolved organic carbon of drip waters in Beijing Shihua Cave, China

HYDROLOGICAL PROCESSES, Issue 18 2008
Fengmei Ban
Abstract To detect the causal relationship between cave drip waters and stalagmite laminae, which have been used as a climate change proxy, three drip sites in Beijing Shihua Cave were monitored for discharge and dissolved organic carbon (DOC). Drip discharges and DOC were determined at 0 to 14-day intervals over the period 2004,2006. Drip discharges show two types of response to surface precipitation variations: (1) a rapid response; and (2) a time-lagged response. Intra-annual variability in drip discharge is significantly higher than inter-annual variability. The content of DOC in all drip waters varies inter- and intra-annually and has good correlation with drip water discharge at the rapid response sites. High DOC was observed in July and August in the three years observed. The flushing of soil organic matter is dependent upon the intensity of rain events. The DOC content of drip water increases sharply above a threshold rainfall intensity (>50 mm d,1) and shows several pulses corresponding with intense rain events (>25 mm d,1). The DOC content was lower and less variable during the dry period than during the rainy period. The shape of DOC peak also varies from year to year as it is influenced by the intensity and frequency of rainfall. The different drip sites show marked differences in DOC response, which are dominated by hydrological behaviour linked to the recharge of the soil and karst micro-fissure/porosity network. The results explain why not all stalagmite laminae are consistent with climate changes and suggest that the structure of the rainy season events could be preserved in speleothems. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]


Origins and characteristics of Nearctic landbirds in Britain and Ireland in autumn: a statistical analysis

IBIS, Issue 4 2006
IAN A. MCLAREN
We used data from eastern North America in regressions to explain autumn frequencies of Nearctic landbird species in Britain and Ireland (UK-IR). The data were: day-counts of 16 August,15 November from Nova Scotia (NS) on Sable Island 1963,2000 and Seal Island (1963,2002), combined in half-monthly intervals to account for seasonality; published seasonal totals (10- to 11-day intervals, 20 August,10 November 1955,80) of birds killed at a Florida (FL) TV tower; and published counts following a ,Fallout', 11 October 1998, of unseasonal species and southern vagrants in NS, believed to have originated as migrants in the southeast USA that followed a cold front offshore into strong southwest flow beyond. We also used the following species variables: body mass and wing length for size; sd of mass as a proxy for lipid capacity; a five-level index of migratory span (1 for within North America to 5 for almost totally to South America); latitude of easternmost breeding, and distance to nearest normal range to indicate status in NS; a two-level index for day vs. night migrants; an index, where pertinent, of significant population change (0 and 2 for a decrease and increase, respectively, 1 for no change). We also used classification and regression trees to cluster the potential transatlantic vagrants into homogeneous groups based on the explanatory variables. Standard generalized linear model regressions using counts from NS islands and FL produced highly positively skewed residuals (many species too common in UK-IR), but robust regressions eliminated statistical problems, and strengthened effects of non-count variables. Results using Fallout records, representing a subset of longer-distance night migrants, were statistically acceptable. The Fallout list, when supplied with counts from the same species from the NS islands and FL, produced highly significant (R2 = 0.79,0.93) and statistically acceptable regressions that were not improved by robust versions. Overall, the results indicate that October counts, especially of generally larger, longer-distance migrants, best represented those reaching UK-IR. The effect of geographical remoteness was negative , vagrants in NS were less likely to appear in UK-IR. Population changes were important in predicting the 1956,2003 UK-IR counts from 1955,80 FL counts. The seasonal characteristics, high explanatory power of the Fallout list and over-representation of probable over-ocean migrants in the standard regressions all support suggestions by others that many Nearctic vagrants in UK-IR originate in flights off southeast USA and are displaced downwind across the North Atlantic. [source]


Recent variations in seasonality of temperature and precipitation in Canada, 1976,95

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CLIMATOLOGY, Issue 13 2002
Paul H. Whitfield
Abstract A previously reported analysis of rehabilitated monthly temperature and precipitation time series for several hundred stations across Canada showed generally spatially coherent patterns of variation between two decades (1976,85 and 1986,95). The present work expands that analysis to finer time scales and a greater number of stations. We demonstrate how the finer temporal resolution, at 5 day or 11 day intervals, increases the separation between clusters of recent variations in seasonal patterns of temperature and precipitation. We also expand the analysis by increasing the number of stations from only rehabilitated monthly data sets to rehabilitated daily sets, then to approximately 1500 daily observation stations. This increases the spatial density of data and allows a finer spatial resolution of patterns between the two decades. We also examine the success of clustering partial records, i.e. sites where the data record is incomplete. The intent of this study was to be consistent with previous work and explore how greater temporal and spatial detail in the climate data affects the resolution of patterns of recent climate variations. The variations we report for temperature and precipitation are taking place at different temporal and spatial scales. Further, the spatial patterns are much broader than local climate regions and ecozones, indicating that the differences observed may be the result of variations in atmospheric circulation. Copyright © 2002 Environment Canada. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]


Preparation and evaluation of pizza cheese made from blend of vetch,bovine milk

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, Issue 5 2008
Salim-ur-Rehman
Summary The objective of the study was to develop vetch,bovine milk (VBM) pizza cheese low in animal fat and its acceptability was determined through physico-chemical, functional and sensory evaluations. Vetch (Lathyrus sativus) was detoxified by steeping in double its quantity of water for 8 h at 70 °C, changing the water seven times, draining and sun drying. Dried vetch was then treated with water at pH 4.0 at 90 °C for 60 min to deplete the beany flavour, then dried and milled into fine flour with Quadrumate Senior mill. The seed coat was separated as one of the mill fractions. Four types of VBM blends were prepared from vetch flour and bovine skimmed milk powder and were used to prepare cheese using 2.5% lactic acid bacterial culture of Streptococcus thermophillus and Streptococcus bulgaricus and rennet (0.15 mL L,1, 1:40 ratio with water). The cheese was stored at 4 °C for 14 days and used as topping over the pizza shell. Physico-chemical analyses, such as moisture, total solids, lactose, ash, fat, titratable acidity and pH, and sensory evaluations of both cheese and pizza were carried out at 0-, 7- and 14-day intervals. The stretchability and meltability of cheese increased significantly (P < 0.05) during storage. Commercial Mozzarella cheese was taken as a control. The results of this study suggested that VBM blend at the ratio of 12.5:87.5 (vetch flour:bovine milk powder) could be utilised to prepare a cheese of desirable characteristics for pizza topping. [source]


Saline Drainage Water, Irrigation Frequency and Crop Species Effects on Some Physical Properties of Soils

JOURNAL OF AGRONOMY AND CROP SCIENCE, Issue 1 2001
Y. A. Al-Nabulsi
This field study evaluated the effects of water quality, irrigation frequency and crop species on some physical properties of soils. The experiment had a split-split-plot design, with three irrigation water qualities (normal water, drainage water and a 1 : 1 mixture of freshwater and drainage water) as the main treatments, two irrigation frequencies (at 7- and 14-day intervals) as the subtreatments and two crops (barley and alfalfa) as the subsubtreatments. The soil infiltration rate was highest in the barley plot receiving freshwater irrigation at weekly intervals. The lowest soil infiltration rate was found in alfalfa plots receiving saline irrigation water at 14-day intervals. Bulk density and proportions of micropores [pore radius (r) < 1.4 µm] were higher and the proportion of macropores (r > 14.4 µm) was lower in barley than in alfalfa. Saline irrigation caused the greatest decrease in total porosity. The soil infiltration rate was higher with more frequent irrigation, and was highest in alfalfa plots receiving freshwater irrigation. The decrease in soil bulk density and infiltration rate was greater with saline drainage water, irrespective of the crop grown and the irrigation frequency. Salzhaltiges Drainagewasser, Bewässerungshäufig-keit und Kulturpflanzenarten mit Wirkung auf einige physikalische Eigenschaften des Bodens Eine Felduntersuchung wurde vorgenommen, um dem Einfluss der Wasserqualität, der Bewässerungshäufigkeit und Kulturpflanzenarten auf einige physikalische Eigenschaften von Böden zu untersuchen. Die Infiltrationrate mit Frischwasser in wöchentlichen Abständen unter Gerste war hoch. Eine Behandlung mit Salzwasser in 14 tägigen Abständen unter Luzerne zeigte eine geringere Infiltrationsrate des Bodens. Bodendichte und der Anteil der Mikroporen (Poren mit einem Radius von r < 1,4 mm) waren größer und der Anteil der Makroporen (r > 14,4 mm) war unter Gerste geringer. Bewässerung mit Salzwasser verursachte die stärkste Abnahme in der Gesamtporosität. Die Infiltrationsrate des Bodens nahm mit der Häufigkeit der Bewässerung zu und zeigte den höchsten Wert bei Luzerne und einer Frischwasserbewässerung. Die Abnahme in der Bodendichte und der Infiltrationseigenschaften waren bei Salzwasserdrainage unabhängig von der Kulturpflanzenart und der Bewässerungshäufigkeit höher. [source]


Predictive Value of Nonspecific Symptoms for Acute Illness in Nursing Home Residents

JOURNAL OF AMERICAN GERIATRICS SOCIETY, Issue 8 2003
Kenneth S. Boockvar MD
OBJECTIVES: To examine the predictive value of nonspecific symptoms for acute illness in nursing home residents. DESIGN: Prospective, observational study. SETTING: Academic nursing home located in an urban setting. PARTICIPANTS: Two hundred two newly admitted residents. MEASUREMENTS: Eleven nonspecific symptoms were ascertained by review of observations documented by nursing home staff in the medical record. Research staff independently identified acute illness according to previously established criteria from nurse report and medical record review. Follow-up was divided into 10-day intervals, and concordance between nonspecific symptoms and acute illness within these intervals was determined. Predictive values were calculated according to standard formulae. RESULTS: Nonspecific symptoms and acute illnesses occurred in 21.7% and 12.5% of 10-day intervals, respectively. Positive predictive values (PPVs) were highest for lethargy, weakness, and decreased appetite, each of which correctly predicted the presence of an acute illness one out of two times the symptoms were reported. Agitation and disorientation predicted an acute illness one out of three times, and falls predicted an acute illness one out of four times. Overall, the PPV of the occurrence of any nonspecific symptom was 0.24, and the negative predictive value of the absence of nonspecific symptoms was 0.91. CONCLUSION: Hypoactive nonspecific symptoms are more likely than other nonspecific symptoms to be signs of incipient acute illness. Studies are needed to determine whether an intervention in residents with these nonspecific symptoms can enable earlier detection and treatment of acute illness. [source]


Seasonal abundance, spatial distribution and sampling indices of thrip populations on cotton; a 4-year survey from central Greece

JOURNAL OF APPLIED ENTOMOLOGY, Issue 7-8 2002
P. N. Deligeorgidis
Thus, in a cotton field (1.1 ha) in central Greece, 45 leaves were collected (one leaf per cotton plant) at 10-day intervals from May to September, for four consecutive growing seasons (1995,98). Five species of thrips were found: Frankliniella intonsa was the most abundant species followed by Thrips angusticeps, Thrips tabaci, Frankliniella occidentalis and Aeolothrips intermedius. Although considerable differences were observed in the population fluctuations among species, the highest population densities, for all species found, were recorded in July and August. As indicated by Taylor's power law estimates, all species presented aggregated distribution among sampling units. As this type of spatial pattern indicates, the accuracy obtained in estimating mean population density increased with the increase of the mean. Furthermore, the increase of the mean caused an exponential decrease in sample size. However, the precision level is acceptable only in high mean values, while at the same time the benefit from an increase in sample size is of no practical value. [source]


Repeated grazing of a salt marsh grass by moulting greylag geese Anser anser, does sequential harvesting optimise biomass or protein gain?

JOURNAL OF AVIAN BIOLOGY, Issue 1 2003
Anthony D. Fox
The effects of simulated goose grazing on common saltmarsh-grass Puccinellia maritima plants were tested on a Danish salt marsh during the flightless moulting period of greylag geese Anser anser (3,21 June 1998). Plants in an area exclosed from the influence of grazing and the nutrient effects of goose faeces were subject to removal of youngest lamina at 3-, 6-, 9- and 18-day intervals during this period. Average biomass and protein accumulation between harvests was highest at defoliation intervals of 9 days or more. Field observations from two separate study areas demonstrated geese returned to regraze the Puccinellia sward after 6,8 days and oesophageal contents from feeding geese showed selection for lamina lengths consistent with the results of clipping every 6 days. Geese therefore regrazed Puccinellia patches at shorter intervals than expected were they to maximise their intake of biomass or protein at each visit. However, total cumulative lamina elongation, equivalent to the long term gain during the entire moult period, showed no significant difference between the three most intensive defoliation treatments, which were significantly greater than those of plants defoliated at 18 day intervals. Highest overall lamina protein levels were maintained at 6- and 9-day defoliation intervals. This suggests geese regrazed Puccinellia patches at a rate that maximised their number of harvests during the flightless period, but maintained highest protein levels and overall biomass in the sward. This suggests, in line with earlier studies, that moulting greylag geese combine dietary selection, reduced nitrogen excretion and regrazing patterns to meet protein demands during regrowth of flight feathers. [source]


EFFECT OF ANTICAKING AGENT ADDITION AND HEADSPACE REDUCTION IN THE POWDERED-DRINK MIX SENSORY STABILITY

JOURNAL OF FOOD QUALITY, Issue 3 2006
INAR A. CASTRO
ABSTRACT The objective of the present study was to assess the effect of the addition of 0.2% anticaking agent "silicon dioxide" (S) and of 70.0% reduction of the headspace in the package (H) both individually and combined (SH), on the sensory and physicochemical characteristics of a powdered-drink mix over a shelf-life period of 120 days. The "difference from control" test was applied to 10 trained panelists in order to assess the four treatments at 30-day intervals throughout the experimental period, according to visual aspect of the powdered mix and drink flavor. The results demonstrated that a reduction of 70% of the headspace was the most effective treatment for product sensory stability. Water activity (Aw) was a more sensitive parameter than moisture content and ascorbic acid degradation. Although Aw has shown a significant difference over time, the sensory properties still seemed to be a better shelf-life indicator for powdered mixes. Based on the sensory alterations of the aspect of the powder, a reduction of headspace and the limiting of shelf life to between 60 and 90 days could be recommended for powdered-drink mixes packaged in polypropylene containers. [source]


The effect of the time and mode of application of gibberellic acid and inhibitors of gibberellin biosynthesis on the dormancy of potato tubers grown from true potato seed

JOURNAL OF THE SCIENCE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE, Issue 10 2007
Alexios A Alexopoulos
Abstract Gibberellic acid (GA3) and inhibitors of gibberellin biosynthesis (daminozide and chlormequat chloride) were applied to the foliage of potato plants grown from true seed (TPS) either once at two stages of plant development, 40 and 60 days after transplantation (DAT), or repeatedly at 10 day intervals starting from the same growth stages. When GA3 was applied towards the end of the vegetative cycle (either singly 60 DAT or repeatedly from the same date), it induced rapid breakage of tuber dormancy, a reduction in specific weight, a higher rate of respiration and increased weight loss during storage. Single applications of GA3 early in the vegetative cycle (40 DAT) had no effect on the weight loss and specific weight of tubers during storage, whereas repeated foliar applications of GA3 starting from the same stage resulted in the formation of tubers with a low specific weight and a high rate of weight loss during storage. However, the tubers from these treatments did not break dormancy uniformly, and, although in the early stages of storage they exhibited a high rate of respiration, this declined to the level of the control (no growth regulator applied). Although daminozide and chlormequat chloride did not affect the duration of tuber dormancy and had little or no effect on any of the other metabolic indicators studied, gibberellin is nevertheless implicated in dormancy breakage, and its application late in the growth cycle may be of practical value in cases where tubers are required for planting soon after harvest. Overall, tubers from TPS respond to plant growth regulator treatment in a similar way to those from plants grown from seed tubers. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry [source]


Comparative effect of red yeast rice (Monascus purpureus), red beet root (Beta vulgaris) and betanin (E-162) on colour and consumer acceptability of fresh pork sausages packaged in a modified atmosphere

JOURNAL OF THE SCIENCE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE, Issue 4 2006
Luis Martínez
Abstract Fresh pork sausages containing natural colorants, red yeast rice powder (Monascus purpureus; Frame®) or a crude red beet root (Beta vulgaris) juice or commercial betanin (E-162), at different concentrations, were packaged in an atmosphere containing 80% O2 and 20% CO2 and stored in the dark for 20 days. The following parameters were measured at 4 day intervals: instrumental colour (CIE L*, a*, b*, a*/b*, C* and h*), reflectance spectra, sensory discoloration (trained panel) and acceptability and willingness to purchase (habitual and non-habitual consumer panels) under two different lighting displays (standard fluorescent and Promolux® lamp). The use of colorants improved the colour properties of fresh pork sausages. Sausages with red yeast rice, red beet root juice and betanin had lower L* and h* and higher a* and a*/b* values than control samples. The colour properties of sausages with red beet root were the closest to control sausages, while sausages with red yeast rice had significantly lower b* values. Both natural colorants and betanin protected sausages from discoloration and extended acceptability and willingness to purchase by about 4 days, according to evaluation by habitual consumers under two different types of lighting display. Therefore, red beet root juice may be envisaged as the most suitable natural colorant for use in fresh pork sausages. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry [source]


Clinical trial: effects of botulinum toxin on levator ani syndrome , a double-blind, placebo-controlled study

ALIMENTARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 9 2009
S. S. C. RAO
Summary Background, Levator ani syndrome is characterized by anorectal discomfort/pain, treatment of which is unsatisfactory. We hypothesized that Botulinum toxin relieves spasm and improves symptoms. Aim, To perform a randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover study to examine the efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin in patients with levator ani syndrome. Methods, Twelve patients with levator ani syndrome (,1 year) received anal intra sphincteric injections of 100 units of botulinum toxin A and placebo at 90-day intervals using EMG guidance. Daily frequency, severity, duration and intensity of pain (VAS) were recorded. Anorectal manometry, balloon expulsion and pudendal nerve latency tests were performed to examine the physiological changes and adverse effects. Results, Seven patients (male/female = 4/3) completed the study and three had incomplete data, but all 10 underwent in an ITT analysis; two others dropped out. After administration of botulinum toxin, the mean frequency, intensity and duration of pain were unchanged (P = 0.31) compared with baseline. The 90-day mean VAS pain score was 6.79 ± 0.27 vs. baseline score of 7.08 ± 0.29 (P = 0.25). Anal sphincter pressures, rectal sensory thresholds, pudendal nerve latency and balloon expulsion times were unchanged after drug or placebo administration. Conclusions, Injection of botulinum toxin into anal sphincter is safe, but it does not improve anorectal pain in levator ani syndrome. [source]


Efficacy and safety of dirlotapide in the management of obese dogs evaluated in two placebo-controlled, masked clinical studies in North America

JOURNAL OF VETERINARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 2007
J. A. WREN
Dirlotapide was evaluated in the management of obesity in dogs in two multicenter, clinical studies in North America. A total of 335 obese dogs of various breeds were randomized to dirlotapide or placebo in a 2:1 ratio. Dirlotapide was administered orally once daily to dogs at an initial dose of 0.05 mg/kg, increased after 14 days to 0.1 (study B, label dose) or 0.2 mg/kg (study A) and then adjusted according to individual weight loss at 28-day intervals. Dogs were examined and weighed, and body condition scores (BCSs) were recorded every 28 days. Study A had three consecutive phases: weight loss (16 weeks, day 0,112); weight management (12 weeks); and post-treatment (8 weeks). Study B had a weight loss phase only. For dirlotapide-treated dogs, mean weight loss by day 112 was 11.8,14.0% compared with 3.0,3.9% for placebo (P = 0.0001). In study A, weight losses for dirlotapide were 19.3% after 12 weeks of weight management and 16.7% (regain of 3.4%) by 8 weeks after dirlotapide was discontinued. In both studies, dogs in both treatments had emesis, lethargy, anorexia, diarrhea, and mildly elevated hepatic transaminase activity, that resolved spontaneously with time. These were experienced more frequently with dirlotapide. Improved activity levels and BCS for >50% dogs were reported with dirlotapide. Dirlotapide was safe and effective in the reduction and management of body weight in obese dogs. [source]


Macular pigment optical density at four retinal loci during 120 days of lutein supplementation

OPHTHALMIC AND PHYSIOLOGICAL OPTICS, Issue 4 2007
Adam J. Wenzel
Abstract Background:, Increased consumption of lutein and zeaxanthin has been shown to increase macular pigment optical density (MPOD) in some individuals. Most interventions either obtained infrequent measures of MPOD or measured MPOD at a single retinal locus. Purpose:, The aim of this study was to measure acute changes in MPOD at four retinal loci during lutein intervention. Methods:, For 120 days, three subjects consumed 30 mg of lutein and 2.7 mg of zeaxanthin supplement per day. MPOD was measured with heterochromatic flicker photometry at 20,, 30,, 60, and 120, eccentricity three or four times per week. High-performance liquid chromatography was used to measure serum carotenoid concentrations in blood samples collected at baseline and at 30-day intervals. Results:, At the two most central loci, MPOD significantly increased in all three subjects with a mean change of approximately 0.09 log units at 20, eccentricity and 0.08 log units at 30, eccentricity. MPOD significantly increased in two subjects at 60, eccentricity, and in one subject at 120, eccentricity. The increases in MPOD appeared to be linear and continued after treatment was ended. In all three subjects, log sensitivity at the reference locus decreased linearly. Serum lutein and serum zeaxanthin increased from baseline, reaching peak concentrations after 30 days of supplementation. Conclusion:, The changes in MPOD suggest that carotenoid deposition occurs linearly and may be biased towards the central retina. Further, carotenoid deposition may occur outside the central fovea in interventions with pharmacological doses of carotenoid, resulting in underestimations of psychophysical measures of MPOD. [source]


Tenoxicam controls pain without altering orthodontic movement of maxillary canines

ORTHODONTICS & CRANIOFACIAL RESEARCH, Issue 1 2009
GM Arantes
Structured Abstract Authors,,, Arantes GM, Arantes VMN, Ashmawi HA, Posso IP Objectives,,, To study the efficacy of tenoxicam for pain control, its potential for preemptive analgesia, and its influence on the orthodontic movement of upper canine teeth. Design,,, This was a randomized controlled double-blind cross-over study. The patients were divided into three groups. Two groups received tenoxicam in daily doses of 20 mg orally for 3 days. Group A received the first dose of the drug before orthodontic activation and group B, just afterwards. Group C (control) received a placebo for 3 days. All groups had access to 750 mg of paracetamol up to four times a day. Three orthodontic activations were performed at 30-day intervals. Each patient belonged to two different groups. Pain intensity was assessed using a descriptive Pain Scale and a Visual Analog Scale. Setting and Sample Population,,, Private clinic; 36 patients undergoing bilateral canine tooth retraction. Results,,, The statistical analysis did not show any difference in movement between the active groups and the control at any time. There was no statistical difference between the groups that received tenoxicam. Pain intensity in these groups was lower than in the placebo group. The difference in pain intensity between the active groups and the control was greatest at the assessment made 12 h after activation and it tended to zero, 72 h after activation. Conclusions,,, Tenoxicam did not influence orthodontic movement of the upper canines. It was effective for pain control and did not present any preemptive analgesic effect. [source]


Organic-walled dinoflagellate cyst production in relation to upwelling intensity and lithogenic influx in the Cape Blanc region (off north-west Africa)

PHYCOLOGICAL RESEARCH, Issue 2 2005
Ewa Susek
SUMMARY Fossil dinoflagellate cyst assemblages are increasingly used in paleoclimatic research to establish paleoenvi-ronmental reconstructions. To obtain reliable reconstructions, it is essential to know which physical factors influence the cyst production. Most information about the relationship between variations in physical parameters and cyst production is known from middle and higher latitudes. Information from the (sub)tropics is rare. To increase this information, the temporal variation in cyst assemblages from the upwelling area off north-west Africa (off Mauritania) has been compared to environmental conditions of the upper water column. Samples were collected by the sediment trap CB9, off north-west Africa (Cape Blanc, 21°15,2,N, 20°42,2,W) between 11 June 1998 and 7 November 1999 at 27.5-day intervals. Off Cape Blanc, upwelling occurs throughout the year with variable intensity. This region is also characterized by frequently occurring Saharan dust storms. Seasonal variations in dust input, upwelling intensity and sea surface temperature are reflected by the production of organic-walled dinoflagellate cyst assemblages. Several cyst taxa are produced throughout the sampling interval, with the highest fluxes at times of strongest upwelling relaxation and/or dust input (Echinidinium aculeatum Zonneveld, Echini-din ium delicatum Zonneveld, Echinidinium granulaturn Zonneveld, Echinidinium spp., Impagidinium aculeatum (Wall) Lentin et Williams, Impagidinium sphaeri-cum (Wall) Lentin et Williams, Protoperidinium americanum (Gran et Braarud) Balech, Protoperidinium stellatum (Wall in Wall et Dale) Rochon etal., Protoperidinium spp., Selenopemphix nephroides (Benedek) Benedek et Sarjeant and Selenopemphix quanta (Bradford) Matsuoka). Species such as, for example, Bitectatodinium spongium (Zonneveld) Zonneveld et Jurkschat and Impagidinium patulum (Wall) Stover et Evitt do not show any production pattern related to a particular season of the year or to specific environmental conditions in the upper water column. The production of cysts of Protoperidinium monospinum (Paulsen) Zonneveld et Dale is restricted to intervals with increased nutrient concentrations in upper waters when sea surface temperatures at the sampling site is below approximately 24°C. [source]


Enhancing Embryo Yield in Superovulated Holstein Heifers by Immunization Against Inhibin

REPRODUCTION IN DOMESTIC ANIMALS, Issue 5 2009
C Mei
Contents Eight heifers, aged 16,17 months and showing normal oestrous cycles, were immunized against a recombinant porcine inhibin , subunit immunogen, together with another 10 heifers of the same age as controls and treated with placebo immunogen. Primary (1 mg immunogen) and two booster (0.5 mg immunogen each) immunizations were administered at 28-day intervals. Ten days after the second booster immunization, both groups of heifers underwent a superovulation treatment. Each animal was given an intravaginal progesterone releasing sponge, which was withdrawn 7 days following an i.m. injection of 0.5 mg cloprostenol. Heifers were treated with FSH for 4 days and artificially inseminated after oestrus occurred. The embryos were flushed and evaluated 7 days after insemination. Immunization significantly (p < 0.01) increased blood antibody titres against recombinant porcine inhibin , subunit, from pre-immunizaion and control values of approximately 0.06 of ELISA 450 nm reading to 0.6 to 0.7 after two or three immunizations. The immunized heifers produced on average 15.8 ± 2.8 embryos, significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the yield of 8.3 ± 1.5 in the controls. The number of transferable embryos were non-significantly higher in immunized than in control heifers (9.6 ± 3.1 vs 5.8 ± 1.6, p > 0.05). The peak plasma oestradiol concentrations were significantly higher in immunized than in control heifers, both immediately after FSH treatment and 20 days thereafter. Plasma P4 concentrations after superovulation were in the range of 20 ng,/,ml in the immunized heifers, significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the values approximately 15 ng,/,ml in control heifers. These results indicated that prior immunization against inhibin , subunit stimulated production of antibodies against inhibin, which enhanced follicular developmental response to superovulation and lead to higher yield of total and transferable embryos. Therefore immunization combined with the conventional superovulatory gonadotrophin treatment, can be a simple and efficient method to produce low cost bovine embryos. [source]


Characteristics of Buck Semen with Regard to Ejaculate Numbers, Collection Intervals, Diluents and Preservation Periods

REPRODUCTION IN DOMESTIC ANIMALS, Issue 2 2000
M Shamsuddin
Contents To determine the number of ejaculates which can be collected within a 20-min period after the smallest number of days of sexual rest, and a good diluent to preserve semen for routine AI, five mature Black Bengal bucks were used in three experiments. In experiment 1, semen from the bucks were collected by using artificial vagina at homosexual mounts as many times as possible during 20 min. The ejaculate numbers 1, 3 and 4 (or 5 when the buck could produce it) were examined for important semen characteristics. The mean ejaculate volume, density, mass activity, sperm motility, sperm concentrations, total spermatozoa/ejaculate, proportion of spermatozoa with normal acrosome, midpiece and tail, and the proportion with normal head morphology varied between 267 and 342 µl, 4.1,4.5 (1,5 scale), 4.1,4.2 (1,5 scale), 77,79%, 4187 × 106,5064 × 106/ml, 1140 × 106,1746 × 106, 91,94% and 99%, respectively, depending on the collection number of the ejaculate. The difference between the ejaculates was significant only with respect to volume (p < 0.05). In experiment 2, semen was collected from the bucks successively during 20 min after 1, 2, 3 and 4 day intervals, and the first ejaculates were evaluated for the above-mentioned semen characteristics. Semen collected after 2 or more day intervals had significantly higher volume, sperm concentration and total spermatozoa/ejaculate (p < 0.05). In experiment 3, pools of two to three ejaculates were diluted (1 : 5; semen : diluent) in splits with glucose-citrate-egg yolk (GCEY), Tris-fructose-egg yolk (TFEY) or skim milk (SM) and preserved at +4 to +7°C. Before chilling or after 0 (15 min chilling), 1, 2, 3 and 4 days of preservation, semen was evaluated for motility and proportion of normal spermatozoa with respect to acrosome, midpiece and tail. In data pooled across the bucks, the sperm motility was better in GCEY and TFEY than in SM, and the proportion of normal spermatozoa was higher in SM than in the others (p < 0.05). However, the differences in proportion of normal spermatozoa between diluents were not significant when the data were analysed separately within preservation periods. The sperm motility consistently dropped after 1 day of preservation (p < 0.01); the motility remained 50% or more up to 4 days in TFEY, 3 days in GCEY and only 2 days in SM. The proportion of spermatozoa with normal acrosome, midpiece and tail, which was generally quite high ( 90%), decreased after 3 days of preservation (p < 0.01). We conclude that Black Bengal bucks can be collected three times during 20 min, every 3 days, and that buck semen holds good motility and proportion of normal spermatozoa up to 3 days in GCEY or TFEY at 4 to 7°C. [source]


Efficacy of 308-nm excimer light for Japanese patients with psoriasis

THE JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 11 2009
Yusuke NIWA
Abstract Ultraviolet irradiation therapy, including psoralen and ultraviolet A therapy and narrow-band ultraviolet B (310,312 nm) therapy, is a widely used and highly efficient treatment modality for psoriasis. Therapy with 308-nm excimer light has been reported to be effective for the treatment of psoriasis vulgaris. To evaluate the efficacy of 308-nm excimer light therapy for Japanese psoriasis patients, seven patients (six men and one woman) with plaque-type psoriasis were treated with 308-nm excimer light at 7,14-day intervals. The Psoriasis Severity Index (PSI) was calculated for individual plaques in order to assess the effectiveness of the therapy. A 74.9% mean improvement in the PSI was observed after 10 treatment sessions. These results suggested that targeted irradiation with 308-nm excimer light leads to rapid and selective improvement in plaque-type psoriatic lesions without unnecessary radiation exposure to the surrounding unaffected skin. [source]


Maize canopy production under contrasted water regimes

ANNALS OF APPLIED BIOLOGY, Issue 1 2010
Y. Song
Two field experiments were employed to investigate canopy production in two cultivars of maize (Zea mays), Pioneer 34N43 and Pioneer 31H50, under contrasted water regimes. Plants were sampled at 1,3 day intervals to quantify extension of leaves and internodes. Final lengths of leaf laminae, sheaths and internodes were reduced when the organ extension was exposed to water stress; however, Pioneer 34N43 appeared to be more sensitive than Pioneer 31H50. An effective linear phase by simplifying a four-phase model was used to characterise organ extension in response to water stress. The coordination of the timing of sequential extension events of laminae, sheaths and internodes was preserved under mild water stress, but rates of processes were reduced. The rate of linear extension was principally responsible for reduction in organ length. This study provides robust relationships for use in modelling organ extension and canopy production under mild to moderate water stress. [source]


Acclimation of photosynthesis to elevated CO2 in onion (Allium cepa) grown at a range of temperatures

ANNALS OF APPLIED BIOLOGY, Issue 1 2004
T R WHEELER
Summary Onion (Allium cepa) was grown in the field within temperature gradient tunnels (providing about -2.5°C to +2.5°C from outside temperatures) maintained at either 374 or 532 ,mol mol,1 CO2. Plant leaf area was determined non-destructively at 7 day intervals until the time of bulbing in 12 combinations of temperature and CO2 concentration. Gas exchange was measured in each plot at the time of bulbing, and the carbohydrate content of the leaf (source) and bulb (sink) was determined. Maximum rate of leaf area expansion increased with mean temperature. Leaf area duration and maximum rate of leaf area expansion were not significantly affected by CO2. The light-saturated rates of leaf photosynthesis (Asat) were greater in plants grown at normal than at elevated CO2 concentrations at the same measurement CO2 concentration. Acclimation of photosynthesis decreased with an increase in growth temperature, and with an increase in leaf nitrogen content at elevated CO2. The ratio of intercellular to atmospheric CO2 (C1/C3 ratio) was 7.4% less for plants grown at elevated compared with normal CO2. Asat in plants grown at elevated CO2 was less than in plants grown at normal CO2 when compared at the same C1. Hence, acclimation of photosynthesis was due both to stomatal acclimation and to limitations to biochemical CO2 fixation. Carbohydrate content of the onion bulbs was greater at elevated than at normal CO2. In contrast, carbohydrate content was less at elevated compared with normal CO2 in the leaf sections in which CO2 exchange was measured at the same developmental stage. Therefore, acclimation of photosynthesis in fully expanded onion leaves was detected despite the absence of localised carbohydrate accumulation in these field-grown crops. [source]


Effects of selective harvesting and claw ablation of all-male freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii ) on water quality, production and economics in polyculture ponds

AQUACULTURE RESEARCH, Issue 10 2010
Sheikh Md.
Abstract The effects of selective harvesting (SH) and claw ablation (CA) of blue-clawed (BC) prawns on an all-male freshwater prawn,finfish polyculture system were compared with control (Co) in quadruplicate. Ponds were stocked with all-male freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii, silver carp Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, catla Catla catla and mola Amblypharyngodon mola at 12 000, 2000, 500 and 20 000 ha,1 respectively. Prawns were fed with pelleted feed. Ponds were fertilized regularly with urea, triple super phosphate and cow-dung. SH of BC prawns in treatment SH and CA in treatment CA started on the 60th day during a 137-day culture and continued at 15-day intervals until the final harvest. Water quality parameters and plankton abundance did not vary significantly (P>0.05) among the treatments. Treatment SH resulted in a higher (P<0.05) net production of freshwater prawn (437 kg ha,1), with better survival and mean weight, followed by CA (354 kg ha,1) and Co (322 kg ha,1). The combined net production of prawn plus finfish was also higher in SH (1244 kg ha,1) as compared with CA (1161 kg ha,1) and Co (1137 kg ha,1), although the finfish production did not differ significantly. The periodic SH of BC prawns showed a better economic return with a BCR of 1.71. [source]