bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Evaluation of Bioactive Glass in the Treatment of Periodontal Defects: A Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Clinical Trials
Authors: Sohrabi Keyvan , Saraiya Veeral , Laage Thomas A. , Harris Maureen , Blieden Marissa , Karimbux Nadeem
Published: August 2011

Background: The regenerative surgical treatment of intrabony defects caused by periodontal disease has been examined in several systematic reviews and meta‐analyses. The use of bioactive glass (BG) as a graft material to treat intrabony defects has been reported, but all data have not been synthesized and compiled. Our objective was to systematically review the literature on the use of BG for the treatment of intrabony defects and to perform a meta‐analysis of its efficacy.

Methods: A search of PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, as well as a manual search of recently published periodontology journals, were conducted to identify randomized controlled trials of the use of BG in the treatment of intrabony and furcation defects. Criteria included publication in English, follow‐up duration of ≥6 months, baseline and follow‐up measures of probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment levels (CAL) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), and an appropriate control arm. Twenty‐five citations were identified, 15 of which were included in the final analysis. Data, including study methods and results, as well as CONSORT (Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials) criteria, were extracted from eligible studies and cross‐checked by at least two reviewers.

Results: Meta‐analyses of eligible studies were performed to ascertain summary effects for changes in PD and CAL among experimental and control groups, using the mean change plus standard deviation for each study. Pooled analyses showed that BG was superior to control for both measures: the mean (95% CIs) difference from baseline to follow‐up between BG and controls was 0.52 mm (0.27, 0.78, P <0.0001) in reduction for PD and 0.60 mm (0.18, 1.01, P = 0.005) in gain for CAL. Analyses of CAL revealed heterogeneity across studies (I2 = 60.5%), although studies reporting PD measures were homogeneous (I2 = 0.00%). CAL heterogeneity appeared secondary to active controls versus open flap debridement (OFD) alone and to defect‐type modifying BG treatment success. Per subgroup analyses, the benefit of BG over control treatment was highly significant only in studies comparing BG to OFD (P <0.0001), with mean difference change in CAL being 1.18 mm (95% CI = 0.74, 1.62 mm) between the BG and OFD group.

Conclusion: Treatment of intrabony defects with BG imparts a significant improvement in both PD and CAL compared to both active controls and OFD.
Sepsis and the Spleen
Authors: Garcia Marques Ruy
Published: August 2011

Since ancient times, the spleen is regarded as a mysterious and intriguing organ. It has various
functions underscoring its prepoderant relevance as the largest secondary lymphoid organ system. Total
splenectomy done at any age and for any reason increases the risk of death from overwhelming postsplenectomy
infection (OPSI). The etiologic agents most frequently found in OPSI are Streptococcus pneumoniae,
Haemophilus influenzae type B, and Neisseria meningitidis, but other bacteria such β-hemolytic Streptococcus,
Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas sp., also present a significant risk. Prophylaxis of
OPSI is located in three main categories: patient education, immunoprophylaxis, and chemoprophylaxis. Besides
these, the realization of heterotopic splenic autotransplantation after splenectomy seems to favor the recovery of
some of the functions of the spleen. However, these measures seem to be not sufficient to prevent the higher risk
of developing OPSI. Because of this risk, the indication for the realization of total splenectomy in trauma and
several diseases has been sharply declining. The objective of this work is to make a description of the aspects that
correlate the absence of spleen with the occurrence of sepsis.
Ice Cream Powder Production and Investigation of Its Rheological and Organoleptic Properties
Authors: Haghighimanesh Soroush , Farahnaky Asgar
Published: August 2011

A basic formulation (50 g sucrose + 47.5 g milk powder + 1.5 g cocoa powder) was mixed thoroughly with various proportions of xanthan, sodium alginate, tragacanth gum and carrageenan gums to make fifteen desired formulations of ice cream powder. The ice cream powders and water were poured into the ice cream maker machine in proportions of one to one (w/w) and ice creams were prepared and compared. Melting time, rheological and organoleptic tests on the produced ice creams were performed and the results showed that the maximum viscosity and melting time belonged to the number 7 and 14 samples, having tragacanth and carrageenan in their formulations, respectively. Overall, acceptability of the samples 1, 7, 8 and 14 was the highest. Using mixed combinations of hydrocolloids in ice cream powder formulation offers higher viscosity, longer melting time and better organoleptic properties to the final product (ice cream) than single hydrocolloids.
Behavioral Response to Stock Abundance in Exploiting Common-Pool Resources
Authors: Zhang Junjie
Published: August 2011

Successful regulation of common-pool resources calls for a better understanding of resource exploitation behavior. This paper introduces an approach that can measure fishermen's responsiveness to stock changes more accurately. In order to deal with the challenge of the latent fish stock, I adopt the method proposed by Zhang and Smith (2011) that derives a stock index from a heterogeneous production function. I use the imputed stock proxy in a count data model that describes fishing trip frequency. By these two steps, I can estimate the stock elasticity of fishing mortality. In the empirical study of the reef-fish fishery in the northeastern Gulf of Mexico, I find that the popular method that uses catch rate as a stock proxy significantly underestimates fishermen's responses to stock changes. This result suggests that policy predictions based on the traditional method are overly optimistic.
Assessment of homotopy perturbation method in nonlinear convective-radiative non-Fourier conduction heat transfer equation with variable coefficient
Authors: Torabi Mohsen , Yaghoobi Hessameddin , Saedodin Seyfolah
Published: August 2011

Analytical solutions play a very important role in heat transfer. In this
paper, the He's homotopy perturbation method (HPM) has been applied to
nonlinear convective-radiative non-Fourier conduction heat transfer equation
with variable specific heat coefficient. The concept of the He's homotopy
perturbation method are introduced briefly for applying this method for
problem solving. The results of HPM as an analytical solution are then
compared with those derived from the established numerical solution obtained
by the fourth order Runge-Kutta method in order to verify the accuracy of the
proposed method. The results reveal that the HPM is very effective and
convenient in predicting the solution of such problems, and it is predicted
that HPM can find a wide application in new engineering problems.
Numerical heat transfer model for frost protection of citrus fruits by water from a spraying system
Authors: Issa Roy
Published: August 2011

A simplified model is developed to simulate the conditions associated with
the protection of fruits from frost damage using water from a spraying
system. The model simulates the movement of the solidifying water front on a
single fruit, and based on that determines the spray frequency needed for a
water film to continuously surround the ice-coated fruit to prevent the fruit
temperature from dropping below 0?C. Simulations are presented for the frost
protection of sweet oranges (citrus sinensis). The effect of environmental
conditions such as air temperature, air velocity, surface radiation and water
film evaporation on the development of the ice layer encasing is considered.
Simulations show the effect the encasing ice sheet thickness has on the fruit
temperature if water from a spraying system is turned off permanently.
Experimental tests are also conducted to determine the change in the thermal
properties of citrus sinensis for operating temperatures that range from
above freezing to sub-freezing. The results of the experimental tests and the
numerical simulations shall lead to a better understanding of fruit
protection from frost damage by the application of water from a spraying
system.
Clinical aspects of different types of amblyopia
Authors: Stankovic Branislav
Published: August 2011

nema
Are PCAOB-Identified Audit Deficiencies Associated with a Change in Reporting Decisions of Triennially Inspected Audit Firms?
Authors: Gramling Audrey A. , Krishnan Jayanthi , Zhang Yinqi
Published: August 2011

The primary issue we examine is whether PCAOB-identified audit deficiencies are associated with a change in triennially inspected audit firms' going-concern (GC) reporting decisions for their financially distressed clients. Our analysis generally indicates that firms with PCAOB deficiencies were more likely to issue a GC opinion for financially distressed clients subsequent to their PCAOB inspection than prior to their inspection. We also examine the same issue for audit firms with a PCAOB inspection report indicating no audit deficiencies. For these firms, our results provide only limited evidence of a change in the likelihood of issuing a GC opinion, with audit firms becoming more conservative (i.e., greater likelihood of issuing a GC opinion).
Nonaudit Services and Earnings Management in the Pre-SOX and Post-SOX Eras
Authors: Krishnan Jayanthi , Su Lixin (Nancy) , Zhang Yinqi
Published: August 2011

Concerns about the impact of auditor-provided nonaudit services (NAS) on auditor independence arise because of (1) auditors' economic dependence on their clients, and (2) some specific types of NAS which the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) argues can harm auditor objectivity. The SEC's prohibition in 2003 of specific kinds of NAS led to a significant decline in NAS between 2000–2001 and 2004–2005. We argue that this decline in observed NAS fees can be used to identify firms that had a greater likelihood of impaired auditor independence in the pre-SOX period. Using discretionary accruals to proxy for earnings management, we find a positive association between discretionary accruals in the pre-SOX era and the subsequent reduction in NAS, but this was confined to income-decreasing accruals. Further, the association between downward earnings management and the decline in NAS was reduced in the post-SOX era.
Effect of Auditor Negotiation Experience and Client Negotiating Style on Auditors' Judgments in an Auditor-Client Negotiation Context
Authors: Fu Honglin , Tan Hun-Tong , Zhang Jixun
Published: August 2011

In this paper, we present the results of an experiment that investigates the effects of two factors—auditors' negotiation experience and client negotiation style—on auditors' perceived ultimate negotiation outcome in terms of an asset impairment writedown. We show that negotiation experience leads to a higher perceived ultimate negotiated writedown for a client with a contentious negotiation style, suggesting that negotiation experience reaps benefits when it is needed most (i.e., when the client is difficult to deal with). Negotiation experience has no effect for a client with a collaborative negotiation style. We also find that the effect of client negotiation style on auditors' perceived negotiation outcome is contingent on the auditors' negotiation experience. Inexperienced auditors perceive a lower ultimate negotiated writedown when dealing with a contentious rather than a collaborative negotiation style client. In contrast, experienced auditors' perceived negotiation writedown is not affected by the client negotiation style.

Data Availability: Contact the authors.
Neighborhoods and convergence with respect to a closure operator
Authors: Šlapal Josef
Published: August 2011

We study neighborhoods with respect to a categorical closure operator. In particular, we discuss separation and compactness obtained from neighborhoods in a natural way and compare them with the usual closure separation and closure compactness. We also introduce a concept of convergence based on using centered systems of subobjects, which naturally generalizes the classical filter convergence in topological spaces. We investigate behavior of the convergence introduced and show, among others, that it relates to the separation and compactness in natural ways.
Densities generated by equivalent measures
Authors: Bartoszewicz Artur , Filipczak Małgorzata , Poreda Tadeusz
Published: August 2011

In the family of all measures equivalent to the Borel measure µ defined in a metric space X, we look for measures generating the same density points (preserving µ-density at fixed point x
0 ∈ X).
Morphological and photosynthetic acclimation of Potamogeton perfoliatus to different environments in Lake Balaton
Authors: Tóth Viktor , Vári Ágnes , Lugossi Szilveszter
Published: August 2011

Comparative significance and synchronicity of morphological and photosynthetic adjustments of Potamogeton perfoliatus to shore-specific environments were examined on plants growing at the maximum depth of colonisation of the northern and southern shores of Lake Balaton. The shore-specific environments did not affect photophysiological parameters: the photosynthesis of plants on both shores was high, coupled with low respiration and compensation irradiances. In contrast, morphological and habitual differences between the shores were significant: plants of the shady, northern shore had lighter, but larger leaves, and longer internodes concentrated in the apex of the plants. Thus, photophysiological variability of Potamogeton does not follow its morphological differentiation.
The spiny-cheek crayfish Orconectes limosus (Rafinesque, 1817) as an inhabitant of the Baltic Sea — experimental evidences for its invasion of brackish waters
Authors: Jaszczołt Joanna , Szaniawska Anna
Published: August 2011

The main aim of the present study was to determine the effect of low salinity conditions (3 PSU and 7 PSU) on the hatching success, growth and mortality of Orconectes limosus. The results revealed that berried females survived exposure to salinities of 3 PSU and 7 PSU whilst incubating their eggs. The reproductive success reached 100% at both salinities. The length increment of young crayfish per molt was larger at 7 PSU than at 3 PSU — but their condition was affected by higher salinity. The mortality among juveniles reached approximately 50% within 5 weeks of hatching at both salinities.
Communities of heterotrophic protists (protozoa) in the near-bottom zone of the Gdańsk Basin
Authors: Rychert Krzysztof
Published: August 2011

Biomass and generic diversity of heterotrophic protists (protozoa) were studied in the near-bottom zone at five stations located in the inner Gulf of Gdańsk and in offshore waters during June 2002. The highest protozoan biomass was observed in the inner Gulf of Gdańsk and close to the mouth of the Vistula River. Protozoan biomass decreased offshore. In well-oxygenated waters heterotrophic flagellates constituted 39–51%, of the protozoan biomass, ciliates constituted 18–25%, and heterotrophic dinoflagellates 29–39% of the protozoan biomass. These findings confirmed previous studies that showed that a high abundance of heterotrophic dinoflagellates is a distinct feature of the Gulf of Gdańsk. At one station located in the Gdańsk Deep, where the near-bottom zone was anoxic, the contribution of heterotrophic flagellates decreased to 18% and ciliates’ share increased to 82% of the protozoan biomass. No dinoflagellates were observed in the anoxic zone.
Nutrient status in coral reefs of the Îles Eparses (Scattered Islands): comparison to nearby reefs subject to higher anthropogenic influences (Mozambique Channel and Mascarenes, Indian Ocean)
Authors: Riaux-Gobin Catherine , Witkowski Andrzej , Saenz-Agudelo Pablo , Neveux Jacques , Oriol Louise , Vétion Gilles
Published: August 2011

Indian Ocean coral reef environments off Mascarenes (Réunion and Rodrigues Islands), Comores archipelago (Mayotte) and Eparses atolls (Europa, Glorieuses, Juan de Nova and Tromelin), were sampled in 2007 and 2009 for environmental parameters and benthic diatoms studies. This preliminary note documents the nutrient concentrations [NO3−, NO2−, PO4− and Si(OH)4] of coastal waters in diverse sites and examines the possible relationship between nutrient concentration and anthropogenic pressure. The pool of data is restricted, but the marine coastal environments of Réunion, Rodrigues and Mayotte exhibit, on average, higher levels of nutrient concentration, as compared to Eparses atolls, probably in relation to the degree of urbanisation. A project based on the study of benthic diatom assemblages will offer the opportunity to search for possible anthropogenic signatures.
Long-term monitoring data reveal pH dynamics, trends and variability in the western Gulf of Finland
Authors: Brutemark Andreas , Engström-Öst Jonna , Vehmaa Anu
Published: August 2011

Monitoring data on water pH are presented for the period between 1972 and 2009 from the sampling stations Längden and Storgadden, at the entrance to the Gulf of Finland, Baltic Sea. The overall pH in the area ranged from 9.2 to 7.4, on average 8.1, and showed a significant decreasing trend during the winter period corresponding to a median annual decrease of 0.006. The data corroborate previous findings about a seasonal effect, where pH is higher during summer than winter.
Web-Based Parenting Program to Prevent Adolescent Alcohol Misuse: Rationale and Development
Authors: Yap Marie , Jorm Anthony , Bazley Renée , Kelly Claire , Ryan Siobhan , Lubman Dan
Published: August 2011

Objectives: Despite substantial evidence demonstrating the important influence that parents have on adolescent drinking, evidence-based preventative interventions that help parents to reduce the risk that their child will develop later alcohol use problems are lacking. Although some face-to-face family-based interventions for adolescent alcohol misuse have been found to be effective, their public health impact is limited by their labour-intensiveness, poor uptake and low adherence. A web-based intervention has the potential to overcome many of these challenges, and was recently recommended by prevention experts as one key way to increase participation rates in preventative interventions. This paper describes the development of www.parentingstrategies.net , a website providing parenting guidelines and a tailored web-based intervention endorsed by longitudinal research evidence and expert consensus.

Conclusions: This website provides the first web-based preventative intervention for parents, and has great potential as a family friendly component in the spectrum of interventions that are critically needed to tackle the issue of adolescent alcohol misuse across the community.
A Dft Study of Solvent Effects on the Cycloaddition of Norbornadiene and 3,4–Dihydroisoquinoline-N-Oxide
Authors: Siadati Seyyed Amir , Nami Navabeh , Zardoost Mohammad Reza
Published: August 2011

A theoretical study of the kinetics and mechanism of the second-order inter-molecular cycloaddition of norbornadiene and 3,4-dihydroisoquinoline-N-oxide (nitrone) at 398.15 K was performed using the DFT method at the B3LYP level of theory with the 6–311++G(d,p) basis set. Equilibrium molecular geometries and harmonic vibrational frequencies of the reactants, transition state and product were calculated. The effect of solvents on the kinetic and thermodynamic parameters of the reaction were investigated.

The calculated rate constants and activation parameters showed very good agreement with experimental results, especially for ethanol as solvent. These calculations indicated that the reaction proceeds through a synchronous concerted mechanism.
Kinetic and Mechanistic Investigations of Cleavage of P-Nitrophenyl Picolinate Catalysed by Ethylenediamine Cobalt(Ii) Complexes
Authors: Hu Wei , Li Shen Xin , Li Jian Zhang , Wang Ying , Zhang Jin
Published: August 2011

Two novel ethylenediamine cobalt(II) complexes, CoL1 and CoL2, were synthesized and characterized, and were used as mimic hydrolases in the catalytic hydrolysis of a carboxylic ester p-nitrophenyl picolinate, (PNPP). Analysis of the specific absorption spectra of the hydrolytic reaction systems indicated that the catalytic hydrolysis involved key intermediates formed by PNPP with the cobalt(II) complexes. A mechanism for the PNPP hydrolysis has been proposed and the associated kinetic parameters have been calculated. The effects of acidity of the buffer solution, of the structure of the complexes, and of temperature on the rate of the catalysed hydrolysis have also been discussed.
Three-component and One-Pot Reaction between Trimethyl Phosphite, Dimethyl Acetylenedicarboxylate and Ethyl 4-Aryl-2,4-Dioxobutanoates
Authors: Aboee-Mehrizi Fateme , Mosslemin Mohammad H. , Rustaiyan Abdolhossein , Hassanabadi Alireza , Abutalebi Ali , Salari Maryam
Published: August 2011

A three-component and one-pot reaction between trimethyl phosphite and dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylate and ethyl 4-aryl-2,4-dioxobutanoates is described as a simple and efficient route for stereoselective synthesis of cyclobutene derivatives in high yields.
An Approach to the Anticoagulant Agent Rivaroxaban via an Isocyanate-Oxirane Cycloaddition promoted by MgI2.etherate
Authors: Li Chao , Liu Yingshuai , Zhang Yongjun , Zhang Xingxian
Published: August 2011

A convergent and efficient synthesis of anticoagulant rivaroxaban was developed using the cycloaddition of com-mercially available (R)-epichlorohydrin with 4-(morpholin-3-one)phenyl isocyanate catalysed by MgI2 etherate as the key step, in 22% overall yield.
Preparation and Properties of Flat (3-Carboxypropyl)-Ferrocene Nanotubes
Authors: Zhu Tiejian , Wu Qingsheng , Chen Yijun
Published: August 2011

Novel nanotubes, composed of metallocene molecules, [(3-carboxypropyl)-ferrocene flat nanotubes], are reported. Scanning electron microscopy shows the nanotubes have lengths of 20–30 μm, and thicknesses of 0.2–3 μm. X-ray diffraction patterns indicate that they keep the original crystal structure. The optical properties of the products are characterised by FT-IR and UV spectrometry, and they display quantum size effects. A possible mechanism of formation is proposed.
In Situ Synthesis, Structure, Photoluminescence and Theoretical Study of [Cu(2-PyCOOH)2(H2O)2]Cl2
Authors: Chen Wen-Tong
Published: August 2011

A new pyridine-2-carboxylic acid complex, [Cu(2-PyCOOH)2(H2O)2]Cl2, has been prepared in situ through a hydrothermal reaction and its structure comprises discrete [Cu(2-PyCOOH)2(H2O)2]2+ cations and chloride anions which are interlinked via hydrogen bonding interactions to give a 3-D supramolecular motif. Photoluminescent study shows that the complex exhibits an emission in the blue region. Theoretical studies reveal that the emission can be ascribed to metal-to-ligand charge transfer.
A Facile Synthesis of 2, 3-Dimethoxy-5-Methyl-1, 4-Benzoquinones
Authors: Wang Jin , Yang Jian , Zhou Rong-Guang , Yang Bo , Wu Yuan-Shuang
Published: August 2011

Several 2, 3-dimethoxy-5-methyl-1, 4-benzoquinones substituted at the C-6 position with alkoxy methyl groups were prepared by a reaction sequence starting from 2, 3, 4, 5-tetramethoxytoluene (alkoxy methyl) via a Blanc chloromethylation reaction, Williamson reaction and oxidation. The method provided a good yield of 2, 3-dimethoxy-5-methyl-1, 4-benzoquinones and is suitable for the synthesis of other benzoquinone analogues.
Synthesis and Cytotoxicity of Novel 2-Amino-5-Thiazolecarboxamide Derivatives
Authors: Li Hu , Yue Yun , Hu Xiao-Jun , Zhao Sheng-Yin
Published: August 2011

A series of novel 2-amino-5-thiazolecarboxamide derivatives have been designed and synthesised. All the compounds were evaluated for their antiproliferative activity against human leukaemia cancer HL 60 and K562 cell lines by standard MTT assay in vitro. Some of these compounds showed moderate cytotoxic potencies. Structure–activity relationships suggested that the piperazine moiety in the side chain of 2-amino-5-thiazolecarboxamide was associated with an increase in the cytotoxicity.
A Convenient Synthesis of Haematoporphyrin Ester-Ethers under Ultrasound Irradiation
Authors: Xu Shi-chao , Hu Bing-cheng , Cui Qiao-li , Sun Cheng-guo , Liu Zu-liang
Published: August 2011

A convenient approach to the synthesis of haematoporphyrin ester-ethers from haemin under ultrasound irradiation has been developed. This method provides several advantages such as shorter reaction time, high yields and environmental friendliness.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure and Magnetic Properties of a Dinuclear Mn(II) Complex with two syn–Anti Bridging Carboxylate Groups
Authors: Huang Fu–Ping , Zhang Qian , Yu Qing , Bian He–Dong
Published: August 2011

The dinuclear Mn(II) complex [Mn2(L)2(bipy)4]·(ClO4)2·3H2O (HL = 2-benzothiazolylthioacetic acid; bipy = 2,2'-bipyridine) has been synthesised and characterised by single crystal X-ray diffraction, IR and elemental analysis. In the dimeric, cationic complex with a crystallographic centre of symmetry, two bipy molecules chelate each Mn atom. These two metal fragments are then bridged by two L groups in a syn–anti conformation with a Mn···Mn distance of 4.767 Å. The arrangement of these dimers allows the formation of tunnels that host the ClO4- anions and lattice water molecules through hydrogen bonds. Magnetic susceptibility measurement revealed antiferromagnetic coupling between the metal centres.
Immature reticulocyte fraction as a predictor of bone marrow recovery in children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia on remission induction phase
Authors: Yesmin S , Sultana T , Roy CK , Rahman MQ , Ahmed ANN
Published: August 2011

Immature reticulocyte fraction a new routine parameter in the hematology analyzer can give the idea of the earliest morphologic change of bone marrow recovery before other test become positive after chemotherapy. A prospective observational study was carried out in the Department of Clinical Pathology in collaboration with Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University during a period of one year starting from October 2009 to September 2010 to evaluate the bone marrow recovery in children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia by automated reticulocyte analysis. Total fifty patients were enrolled in this study on remission induction phase. All patients were between 8 months to 15 years age range with a mean age of 5.5 ± 3.2. At the end of the study out of 50 cases, 52% patients showed early immature reticulocyte fraction recovery and concluded that the immature reticulocyte fraction parameter showed earlier haematopoietic recovery than the current practice of absolute neutrophil count recovery. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmrcb.v37i2.8435 BMRCB 2011; 37(2): 57-60
Targeted food supplementation through National Nutrition Program and pregnancy weight gain status in selected upazilas
Authors: Karim MR , Flora MS , Akhter S
Published: August 2011

A record based operational research was conducted to explore the effect of targeted food supplementation of National Nutritional Program on pregnancy weight-gain. Records of chronic energy deficient mothers who delivered their baby between 1st January and 31st December, 2008 in the study areas were reviewed. The study included 439 samples from Kapasia sub-district, a National Nutritional Program intervention area and 126 samples from Savar subdistrict, as control area. In the National Nutritional Program area 211 (48%) of the chronic energy deficient mothers were enrolled for supplementation and only 34 (8%) of them completed the full course. Samples of Kapasia and Savar were significantly different in their socio-demographic status. The early–pregnancy average body mass index of supplemented mothers (16.21±0.77) was significantly different from non supplemented mothers of Kapasia (17.14±.82) and Savar areas (17.03±1.19). Average pregnancy weight gain in mothers of control area (6.50±1.53 kg) were significantly lower than supplemented (7.94±1.99 kg) and non-supplemented mothers (7.82±2.28 kg) in National Nutrition Program intervention area (p<0.001). Multivariate analysis showed supplemented mothers were six times [OR with 95% CI; 6.34 (2.43,16.52) and non-supplemented mothers from same area were eleven times more likely to gain targeted weight than the mothers of control area after adjusting for other variables. Duration of supplementation did not show any influence on pregnancy weight gain. The current study showed significant difference in weight gain between National Nutrition Program area and control area, but no significant difference was noticed between non-supplemented and supplemented mothers within National Nutrition Program area. A large-scale well-designed trial is recommended to explore this effect. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmrcb.v37i2.8438 BMRCB 2011; 37(2): 71-75
TADAA: Towards Automated Detection of Anaesthetic Activity
Authors: Houliston B. R. , Merry A. F. , Parry D. T.
Published: August 2011

Background: Task analysis is a valuable research method for better understanding the activity of anaesthetists in the operating room (OR), providing evidence for designing and evaluating improvements to systems and processes. It may also assist in identifying potential error paths to adverse events, ultimately improving patient safety. Human observers are the current ‘gold standard’ for capturing task data, but they are expensive and have cognitive limitations.

Objectives: Towards Automated Detection of Anaesthetic Activity (TADAA) – aims to produce an automated task analysis system, employing Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to capture anaesthetists’ location, orientation and stance (LOS). This is the first stage in a scheme for automatic detection of activity.

Methods: Active RFID tags were attached to anaesthetists and various objects in a high fidelity OR simulator, and anesthetic procedures performed. The anaesthetists’ LOSs were calculated using received signal strength (RSS) measurements combined with machine learning tools including Self-Organizing Maps (SOMs). These LOSs were compared to those derived from video recordings.

Results: SOM clustering was effective at determining anaesthetists’ LOS from RSS data for each procedure. However cross-procedure comparison was less reliable, probably because of changes in the environment.

Conclusions: Active RFID tags provide potentially useful information on LOS at a low cost and with minimal impact on the work environment. Machine learning techniques may be employed to handle the variable nature of RFID’s radio signals. Work on mapping LOS data to activities will involve integration with other sensors and task analysis techniques.
Molecular phylogenetic analysis of the Persea group (Lauraceae) and its biogeographic implications on the evolution of tropical and subtropical Amphi‐Pacific disjunctions
Authors: Li Lang , Li Jie , Rohwer Jens G. , van der Werff Henk , Wang Zhi‐Hua , Li Hsi‐Wen
Published: August 2011

• Premise of the study: The Persea group (Lauraceae) has a tropical and subtropical amphi‐pacific disjunct distribution with most of its members, and it includes two Macaronesian species. The relationships within the group are still controversial, and its intercontinental disjunction has not been investigated with extensive sampling and precise time dating.

• Methods: ITS and LEAFY intron II sequences of 78 Persea group species and nine other Lauraceae species were analyzed with maximum parsimony and Bayesian inference. Divergence time estimation employed Bayesian Markov chain Monte Carlo method under a relaxed clock.

• Key results: Several traditional genera or subgenera within the Persea group form well‐supported monophyletic groups except Alseodaphne and Dehaasia. The divergence time of the Persea group is estimated as ∼55.3 (95% higher posterior densities [HPD] 41.4–69.9) million years ago (mya). Two major divergences within the Persea group are estimated as ∼51.9 (95% HPD 38.9–63.9) mya and ∼48.5 (95% HPD 35.9–59.9) mya.

• Conclusions: Persea can be retained as a genus by the inclusion of Apollonias barbujana and exclusion a few species that do not fit into the established subgenera. A major revision is recommended for the delimitation between Alseodaphne, Dehaasia, and Nothaphoebe. We suggest that the Persea group originated from the Perseeae‐Laureae radiation in early Eocene Laurasia. Its amphi‐pacific disjunction results from the disruption of boreotropical flora by climatic cooling during the mid‐ to late Eocene. The American‐Macaronesian disjunction may be explained by the long‐distance dispersal.
Genomic and EST microsatellites for Rhododendron aureum (Ericaceae) and cross‐amplification in other congeneric species
Authors: Li Lin‐Feng , Yin Dong‐Xu , Song Nan , Tang En‐Hua , Xiao Hong‐Xing
Published: August 2011

• Premise of the study: Our objective of this study was to develop genomic and expressed sequence tag (EST)–derived microsatellites for the endangered species Rhododendron aureum and access their transferability in R. dauricum and R. brachycarpum.

• Methods and Results: Twelve genomic microsatellites were isolated in R. aureum using the Fast Isolation by AFLP of Sequences Containing repeats (FIASCO) protocol and seven EST‐derived microsatellites were characterized by screening the Rhododendron dbEST database of GenBank. The number of alleles per locus ranged from one to eight. The observed and expected heterozygosity varied from 0.00 to 1.00 and from 0.00 to 0.73, respectively.

• Conclusions: A total of 19 microsatellite loci were developed for R. aureum. Sixteen and 10 of these loci were successfully amplified in R. brachycarpum and R. dauricum, respectively. These microsatellite markers will have potential applications in genetic diversity and conservation genetics studies.
Nanoscaled alloy formation from self-assembled elemental Co nanoparticles on top of Pt films
Authors: Han Luyang , Wiedwald Ulf , Biskupek Johannes , Fauth Kai , Kaiser Ute , Ziemann Paul
Published: August 2011

The thermally activated formation of nanoscale CoPt alloys was investigated, after deposition of self-assembled Co nanoparticles on textured Pt(111) and epitaxial Pt(100) films on MgO(100) and SrTiO3(100) substrates, respectively. For this purpose, metallic Co nanoparticles (diameter 7 nm) were prepared with a spacing of 100 nm by deposition of precursor-loaded reverse micelles, subsequent plasma etching and reduction on flat Pt surfaces. The samples were then annealed at successively higher temperatures under a H2 atmosphere, and the resulting variations of their structure, morphology and magnetic properties were characterized. We observed pronounced differences in the diffusion and alloying of Co nanoparticles on Pt films with different orientations and microstructures. On textured Pt(111) films exhibiting grain sizes (20–30 nm) smaller than the particle spacing (100 nm), the formation of local nanoalloys at the surface is strongly suppressed and Co incorporation into the film via grain boundaries is favoured. In contrast, due to the absence of grain boundaries on high quality epitaxial Pt(100) films with micron-sized grains, local alloying at the film surface was established. Signatures of alloy formation were evident from magnetic investigations. Upon annealing to temperatures up to 380 °C, we found an increase both of the coercive field and of the Co orbital magnetic moment, indicating the formation of a CoPt phase with strongly increased magnetic anisotropy compared to pure Co. At higher temperatures, however, the Co atoms diffuse into a nearby surface region where Pt-rich compounds are formed, as shown by element-specific microscopy.
Longitudinal Infant Speech Perception in Young Cochlear Implant Users
Authors: Uhler Kristin , Yoshinaga-Itano Christie , Gabbard Sandra Abbott , Rothpletz Ann M. , Jenkins Herman
Published: August 2011

Purpose:This paper presents longitudinal case studies of children who received (cochlear implants) CIs and a controlled sample of children with normal hearing (NH). Phoneme discrimination (i.e., /sa-ma/, /a-i/, /a-u/, /u-i/, /ta-da/, /pa-ka/) was assessed prior to receiving CIs
and monthly for 3 mo following CI activation.Research Design:Case studies.Study Sample:Three cochlear implant recipients and seven NH control participants were recruited through the University of Colorado Hospital and the University of Colorado, Boulder.Data Collection and
Analysis:The study utilized the visual reinforcement audiometry and interactive play assessment of speech pattern contrasts (VRASPAC) algorithm. A comparison of scoring was conducted using Cohen's kappa to determine interrater reliability.Results:Findings from this study revealed
that CI recipients could discriminate at least three out of five phoneme contrasts at mastery level (≥90%) by 2 mo of device use. None of the CI recipients reached mastery prior to implantation. Following 3 mo of CI use there was no difference in contrast discrimination performance between
the CI users and their NH age-matched peers (with the exception of /pa-ka/ for one CI user).Conclusions:The CI users in this case study, who were implanted between 12 and 16 mo of age, were able to master the phoneme contrasts regardless of bilateral or unilateral CI, socioeconomic
status, or language spoken at home.
Behavioral and Electrophysiologic Binaural Processing in Persons with Symmetric Hearing Loss
Authors: Leigh-Paffenroth Elizabeth D. , Roup Christina M. , Noe Colleen M.
Published: August 2011

Background:Binaural hearing improves our ability to understand speech and to localize sounds. Hearing loss can interfere with binaural cues, and despite the success of amplification, ∼25% of people with bilateral hearing loss fit with two hearing aids choose to wear only
one (e.g., Brooks and Bulmer, 1981). One explanation is reduced binaural processing, which occurs when the signal presented to one ear interferes with the perception of the signal presented to the other ear (e.g., Jerger et al, 1993). Typical clinical measures, however, are insensitive to
binaural processing deficits.Purpose:The purpose of this study was to determine the extent to which behavioral measures of binaural performance were related to electrophysiological measures of binaural processing in subjects with symmetrical pure-tone sensitivity.Research Design:The
relationship between middle latency responses (MLRs) and behavioral performance on binaural listening tasks was assessed by Spearman's rho correlation analyses. Separate repeated measures analyses of variance (RMANOVAs) were performed for MLR latency and MLR amplitude.Study Sample:Nineteen
subjects were recruited for the present study based on a clinical presentation of symmetrical pure-tone sensitivity with asymmetrical performance on a word-recognition in noise test. This subpopulation of patients included both subjects with and subjects without hearing loss.Data Collection
and Analysis:Monaural and binaural auditory processing was measured behaviorally and electrophysiologically in right-handed subjects. The behavioral tests included the Words-in-Noise test (WIN), the dichotic digits test (DDT), and the 500 Hz masking level difference (MLD). Electrophysiologic
responses were measured by the binaural interaction component (BIC) of the MLR. The electrophysiological responses were analyzed to examine the effects of peak (Na, Pa, and Nb) and condition (monaural left, monaural right, binaural, and BIC) on MLR amplitude and latency.Results:Significant
correlations were found among electrophysiological measures of binaural hearing and behavioral tests of binaural hearing. A strong correlation between the MLD and the binaural Na-Pa amplitude was found (r = .816).Conclusions:The behavioral and electrophysiological measures used in the
present study clearly showed evidence of reduced binaural processing in ∼10 of the subjects in the present study who had symmetrical pure-tone sensitivity. These results underscore the importance of understanding binaural auditory processing and how these measures may or may not identify
functional auditory problems.
Sudden Bilateral Sensorineural Hearing Loss following Polysubstance Narcotic Overdose
Authors: Schweitzer Vanessa G. , Darrat Ilaaf , Stach Brad A. , Gray Elizabeth
Published: August 2011

Background:Auditory disorders associated with substance abuse are rare. Hearing loss secondary to heroin and hydrocodone abuse has been described variously as not always responsive to steroid management, as not always reversible, and in some cases, as nonresponsive profound sensorineural
hearing loss requiring cochlear implantation. We present a case of a teenager with sudden-onset moderate to severe bilateral sensorineural hearing loss after documented polysubstance “binging.” The hearing loss improved substantially after high-dose steroid and vasoactive therapy.Purpose:The
purpose of this report is to describe the hearing disorder of a patient who had awakened with a bilateral severe hearing loss following a night of recreational drug abuse.Research Design:Case report and review of the literature.Data Collection and Analysis:The subject of this
report is an 18-yr-old patient with a history of substance abuse. Data collected were magnetic resonance /computed tomography brain imaging; metabolic, infectious disease, and autoimmune evaluation; and extensive audiologic evaluation, including pure-tone and speech audiometry, immittance
measures, distortion-product otoacoustic emissions, and auditory brainstem response testing. Serial audiograms were collected for 10 mo following the onset of symptoms.Results:Two days of polysubstance abuse (heroin, benzodiazepine, alcohol, and crack [smoked cocaine]) resulted in moderately
severe sensorineural hearing loss bilaterally. The loss responded to a 1 mo course of high-dose prednisone and a 10 mo course of pentoxifylline. Hearing sensitivity subsequently improved, leaving only residual high-frequency sensorineural hearing loss.Conclusions:This case report highlights
the importance of “recreational” drug abuse in the evaluation of sudden hearing loss. Potential etiologies include altered pharmacokinetics, vascular spasm/ischemia, encephalopathy, acute intralabyrinthine hemorrhage, and genetic polymorphisms of drug-metabolizing enzymes.
Effect of Maximum Power Output and Noise Reduction on Speech Recognition in Noise
Authors: Kuk Francis , Peeters Heidi , Lau Chi , Korhonen Petri
Published: August 2011

Background:The maximum power output (MPO) of a hearing aid was typically discussed in the context of avoiding loudness discomfort. However, an MPO that is too low, as in the cases to avoid discomfort for people with a severe loudness tolerance problem and hearing losses that
exceed the fitting range of the hearing aids, could negatively affect sound quality and speech intelligibility in noise.Purpose:The current study was designed to demonstrate the degradation in speech intelligibility in noise on the HINT (Hearing in Noise Test) when the MPO of the wearers'
hearing aids was lowered by 10 dB from the default. The interactions with noise reduction (NR) algorithms (classic [NR-classic] and Speech Enhancer [NR-SE]) were also examined.Research Design:A single-blinded, factorial repeated-measures design was used to study the effect of noise
input level (68 dBC, 75 dBC), MPO setting (default and default-10), and NR algorithm (off, classic, SE) on HINT performance.Study Sample:Eleven adults with a severe sensorineural hearing loss participated.Intervention:Participants were fit with the Widex m4-19 behind-the-ear
hearing aids binaurally in the default frequency response and MPO settings. The hearing aids were adjusted to six MPO (default, default-10) by NR (off, classic, SE conditions). Testing was completed within one 2 hr session.Data Collection and Analysis:The RTS (reception threshold for
speech) for 50% correct on the HINT was measured in each of the six hearing aid conditions at two input levels (68 and 75 dBC) with speech and noise stimuli presented from the front. Repeated-measures ANOVAs were conducted using SPSS software to examine significant differences.Results:A
repeated-measures ANOVA showed that noise level was not significant while NR algorithm and MPO were significant. The interaction between noise level and NR algorithm was also significant. Post hoc analysis with Bonferroni adjustment for the effect of NR algorithm showed that performance with
NR-off was significantly poorer than performance with NR-classic and NR-SE (p < 0.05). However, NR-classic and NR-SE were not significantly different from each other (p > 0.05).Conclusions:An MPO that was 10 dB lower than the default could negatively affect the signal-to-noise
ratio (SNR) of the listening environment. However, NR could compensate for the degradation in SNR.
Rehabilitative Online Education versus Internet Discussion Group for Hearing Aid Users: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Thorén Elisabet , Svensson Monica , Törnqvist Anna , Andersson§ Gerhard , Carlbring Per , Lunner Thomas
Published: August 2011

Background:By using the Internet in the audiological rehabilitation process, it might be possible in a cost-effective way to include additional rehabilitation components by informing and guiding hearing aid users about such topics as communication strategies, hearing tactics,
and how to handle hearing aids.Purpose:To evaluate the effectiveness of an online education program for adult experienced hearing aid users including professional guidance by an audiologist and compare it with the effects of participation in an online discussion forum without any professional
contact.Research Design:A randomized controlled study with two groups of participants. Repeated measures at prestudy, immediate follow-up, and a 6 mo follow-up.Study Sample:Fifty-nine experienced hearing aid users participated in the study, ranging in age from 24 to 84 yr (mean
63.5 yr).Intervention:The intervention group (N = 29) underwent a five-week rehabilitative online education in which activities for each week included information, tasks, and assignments, and contact with a professional audiologist was included. The participants in
the control group (N = 30) were referred to an online discussion forum without any audiologist contact.Data Collection and Analysis:A set of questionnaires administered online were used as outcome measures: (1) Hearing Handicap Inventory for the Elderly, (2) International
Outcome Inventory for Hearing Aids, (3) Satisfaction with Amplification in Daily Life, and (4) Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale.Results:Significant improvements measured by the Hearing Handicap Inventory for the Elderly were found in both groups of participants, and the effects
were maintained at the 6 mo follow-up. The results on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale showed that the participants in the intervention group showed reduced symptoms of depression immediately/6 mo after the intervention. At the 6 mo follow-up participants in the control group reported
fewer symptoms of anxiety than they did before the intervention started.Conclusions:This study provides preliminary evidence that the Internet can be used to deliver education to experienced hearing aid users who report residual hearing problems such that their problems are reduced
by the intervention. The study also suggests that online discussion forums could be used in rehabilitation. A combination of online professional supervised education and online informal discussions could be a promising rehabilitation tool.