bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beaver Creek Unit Reservoir Evaluation
Authors: Pradhan Yogashri , Sprague William
Published: September 2015

The Beaver Creek Field is located in Riverton, Wyoming, where production was first active during the 1930's. The Phosphoria formation in the Beaver Creek Field, a prolific gas formation originally developed during the 1940's, produces sour gas from its eight currently active wells. With a dolomite lithology and an average depth of 10,500 feet, currently active wells produce 1200-1300 MCF/D of gas total. Continued production through a sweetening facility is marginally economic due to high operational costs and depressed gas prices.

The Phosphoria wellbores do have other potential utility such as storing water produced by an adjacent coal bed-methane field, known as the Mesaverde, within Beaver Creek. Utility for the Mesaverde is particularly important due to production curtailed by 3600 MCF/D by shutting in the majority of wells in order for water production not to exceed current salt water disposal capacity. Additionally, other “behind-pipe” formations found in these wellbores required evaluation as potentially more profitable strategy. Behind –pipe formations of interest include the gas producing Frontier Dakota formation, and oil producing formations such as the Crow Mountain and Tensleep.

Through analogy, decline curve analysis, volumetrics, reviewing operations history, and running economics, this study determines the optimal utility for Phosphoria wells, whether it be recompletion, converting to salt water disposal, or continuing Phosphoria production through the gas plant.
PAH contents in road dust on principal roads collected nationwide in Japan and their influential factors
Authors: Ozaki Noriatsu , Akagi Yuma , Kindaichi Tomonori , Ohashi Akiyoshi
Published: September 2015

Fifty-four road dust samples were collected from principal roads (n = 37) and residential roads (n = 17) nationwide in Japan from March 2010 to November 2012. Sixteen polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and ignition loss (IL) were determined. The total PAH contents ranged from 62 to 6,325 ng g−1 with a geometric mean of 484 ng g−1. The IL ranged from 0.8 to 17% with a mean of 6%. The PAH contents were correlated with the IL contents, and the IL contents were dependent on the population density. From the PAH pattern analysis, the PAHs from road dust are considered to be mainly from diesel emissions.
Reed bed systems for sludge treatment: case studies in Italy
Authors: Masciandaro G. , Iannelli R. , Chiarugi M. , Peruzzi E.
Published: September 2015

In recent years, reed bed systems (RBSs) have been widely considered as a valid technology for sludge treatment. In this study are presented results about sludge stabilization occurring within beds in four RBSs, situated in Tuscany (Italy). The results showed that stabilization of the sludge over time occurred in all RBSs, as shown by the low content of water-soluble carbon and dehydrogenase activity, which measures indirectly the overall microbial metabolism, and by the re-synthesis of humic-like matter highlighted by the pyrolytic indices of mineralization and humification. Results about heavy metal fractionation, an appropriate technique to estimate the heavy metal bioavailability and sludge biotoxicity, showed that the process of sludge stabilization occurring in RBSs retains metals in fractions related to the stabilized organic matter, making metals less bioavailable. Moreover, the concentrations of various toxic organic compounds were below the limit of concentration suggested by the European Union's Working Document on Sludge, for land application. The effectiveness of the stabilization processes in RBs was hence clearly proven by the results that measured mineralization and humification processes, and by the low levels of bioavailable heavy metals and toxic organic compounds in stabilized sludges.
Integration of polyelectrolyte enhanced ultrafiltration and chemical reduction for metal-containing wastewater treatment and metal recovery
Authors: Yu Jui-Hsuan , Chou Yi-Hsuan , Liang Yang-Min , Li Chi-Wang
Published: September 2015

Chemical reduction was firstly employed to treat synthetic wastewaters of various compositions prepared to simulate the retentate stream of polyelectrolyte enhanced ultrafiltration (PEUF). With fixed Cu:polyethylenimine (PEI) monomer:dithionite molar ratio, increasing copper concentration increases copper removal efficiency. Under fixed Cu:dithionite molar ratio and fixed Cu concentration, increasing PEI monomer:copper molar ratio decreases copper removal efficiency. The formation of nano-sized copper particles, which readily pass through 0.45 μm filter used for sample pretreatment before residual copper analysis, might be the reason behind the decreasing copper removal efficiency observed. Particle size analysis shows that the size of copper particles, which are formed through reduction reaction, increases with decreasing pH value and increasing reaction time. As ultrafiltration is capable of removing these nano-sized particles, integration of chemical reduction and PEUF is proposed to simultaneously achieve regeneration of polyelectrolyte and recovery of copper in one process. Results show that the proposed process could achieve almost complete copper removal without being affected by reaction pH.
Identification of metabolites produced by Phanerochaete chrysosporium in the presence of amlodipine orotate using metabolomics
Authors: De Sotto R. B. , Kim K. I. , Kim S. , Song K. G. , Park Y.
Published: September 2015

Pharmaceuticals are very useful in treating human diseases but they are excreted to the environment sometimes in their original form or as byproducts of human metabolism. Pharmaceuticals and their metabolites have been proven by studies to be harmful to non-target ecological species and may be persistent in different water matrices. In this regard, there is an emergent need to eliminate these compounds to prevent their adverse effects on aquatic species. Biodegradation using white-rot fungi is a promising technology for the removal of recalcitrant compounds; however, products of fungal biodegradation can also be detrimental. In this novel study, we evaluated the ability of Phanerochaete chrysosporium to degrade amlodipine, an anti-hypertensive drug which was recently found in water systems. Analysis of amlodipine metabolites was done using quadrupole time-of-flight liquid chromatography mass spectrometry after the degradation set-up of 120 hours. Pharmaceutical degradation was seen using triple quadrupole liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Ninety-two significant metabolites (P-value ≤ 0.05) were significantly expressed after false discovery rate adjustment at a significance threshold of q = 0.05. Pyridine derivatives which were identified from samples became the basis of the proposed degradation pathway of amlodipine in this study.
Removal of Rhodamine B from aqueous solution using magnetic NiFe nanoparticles
Authors: Liu Yan , Liu Kaige , Zhang Lin , Zhang Zhaowen
Published: September 2015

Surface-modified magnetic nano alloy particles Ni2.33Fe were prepared using a hydrothermal method and they were utilized for removing Rhodamine B (RhB) from aqueous solution. The magnetic nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, which confirmed that the surface of the magnetic product with a face-centered cubic-type structure was successfully modified by sodium citrate. Kinetics studies were conducted. The pseudo-second-order kinetic model was used for fitting the kinetic data successfully. The Freundlich and Langmuir adsorption models were employed for the mathematical description of adsorption equilibrium. It was found that the adsorption isotherm can be very satisfactorily fitted by the Freundlich model.
Cause and effect oriented sewer degradation evaluation to support scheduled inspection planning
Authors: Fuchs-Hanusch D. , Günther M. , Möderl M. , Muschalla D.
Published: September 2015

Managing the subsurface urban infrastructure, while facing limited budgets, is one of the main challenges wastewater utilities currently face. In this context targeted planning of inspection and maintenance measures plays a crucial role. This paper introduces a cause and effect oriented sewer degradation evaluation approach to support decisions on inspection frequencies and priorities. Therefore, the application of logistic regression models, to predict the probability of failure categories as an alternative to the prediction of sewer condition classes, was introduced. We assume that analysing the negative effects resulting from different failure categories in extension to a condition class-based planning approach offers new possibilities for targeted inspection planning. In addition, a cross validation process was described to allow for a more accurate prediction of sewer degradation. The described approach was applied to an Austrian sewer system. The results show that the failure category-based regression models perform better than the conventional condition class-oriented models. The results of the failure category predictions are presented with respect to negative effects the failure may have on the hydraulic performance of the system. Finally, suggestions are given for how this performance-oriented sewer section evaluation can support scheduled inspection planning.
Evaluation of flow hydrodynamics in a pilot-scale dissolved air flotation tank: a comparison between CFD and experimental measurements
Authors: Lakghomi B. , Lawryshyn Y. , Hofmann R.
Published: September 2015

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models of dissolved air flotation (DAF) have shown formation of stratified flow (back and forth horizontal flow layers at the top of the separation zone) and its impact on improved DAF efficiency. However, there has been a lack of experimental validation of CFD predictions, especially in the presence of solid particles. In this work, for the first time, both two-phase (air–water) and three-phase (air–water–solid particles) CFD models were evaluated at pilot scale using measurements of residence time distribution, bubble layer position and bubble–particle contact efficiency. The pilot-scale results confirmed the accuracy of the CFD model for both two-phase and three-phase flows, but showed that the accuracy of the three-phase CFD model would partly depend on the estimation of bubble–particle attachment efficiency.
Simultaneous phosphorus uptake and denitrification by EBPR-r biofilm under aerobic conditions: effect of dissolved oxygen
Authors: Wong Pan Yu , Ginige Maneesha P. , Kaksonen Anna H. , Cord-Ruwisch Ralf , Sutton David C. , Cheng Ka Yu
Published: September 2015

A biofilm process, termed enhanced biological phosphorus removal and recovery (EBPR-r), was recently developed as a post-denitrification approach to facilitate phosphorus (P) recovery from wastewater. Although simultaneous P uptake and denitrification was achieved despite substantial intrusion of dissolved oxygen (DO >6 mg/L), to what extent DO affects the process was unclear. Hence, in this study a series of batch experiments was conducted to assess the activity of the biofilm under various DO concentrations. The biofilm was first allowed to store acetate (as internal storage) under anaerobic conditions, and was then subjected to various conditions for P uptake (DO: 0–8 mg/L; nitrate: 10 mg-N/L; phosphate: 8 mg-P/L). The results suggest that even at a saturating DO concentration (8 mg/L), the biofilm could take up P and denitrify efficiently (0.70 mmol e−/g total solids*h). However, such aerobic denitrification activity was reduced when the biofilm structure was physically disturbed, suggesting that this phenomenon was a consequence of the presence of oxygen gradient across the biofilm. We conclude that when a biofilm system is used, EBPR-r can be effectively operated as a post-denitrification process, even when oxygen intrusion occurs.
Establishment of Mathematical Model and Sensitivity Analysis of Plugging
Capacity of Multi-Component Foam Flooding
Authors: Zhang Chengli , Liang Dezhi , Cui Haiqing , Yin Daiyin , Song Guoliang
Published: September 2015

Based on mass conservation, foam total amount balance thought and foam properties characterization model, a
foam flooding mathematical model with three-phase and five components is established and numerically solved. The explicit
is used to solve the saturation equation and the implicit is used to solve the pressure equation in this model. By fitting
the results of foam plugging capacity experiments and numerical calculation, the correctness of the model is verified.
On this basis, the conceptual model is established to simulate and evaluate the sensitivity of influencing parameters of
foam flooding plugging ability. The results show that: the plugging ability of foam system increases with the increase of
foaming agent concentration. When the concentration of foaming agent is more than 0.3%, the resistance coefficient tends
to steady; when gas-liquid ratio is 2:1, the foam plugging ability is the strongest. The plugging ability of foam system increases
with the increase of permeability showing good permeability selectivity. If the permeability in the reservoir is
higher than the profile, control capability will also be stronger.
Study of Water-rock Interaction with Hydrochemical and Isotopic Datum in Laizhou Bay
Authors: Feng Liu , Fengshan Ma , Jie Guo , Kuo Ding
Published: September 2015

Water-rock interaction of the groundwater in aquifer system has been analyzed and inferred with hydrochemical
and isotopic datum in Laizhou Bay, eastern China. 32 samples of groundwater from three boreholes (96-5#, 96-6#, 112-
1#), couples of seawater, saline water, fresh water, surface water and rainfall are obtained in study area for hydrochemical
and isotopic analyses. The origin of groundwater is generally concluded by stable isotope (§18O and §D) and the analytic
results of Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Cl-, SO2- , HCO3- changing with depth, combined with total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical
conductivity (EC), can be apparently proofs for serious water-rock interaction. The conclusion reveals that the origin of
96-5#, 112-1# is most likely saline water different from that the groundwater of 96-6# which is possible originated from
fresh water, surface water or mixing of both. Compared the ion content of same borehole at different depth and different
boreholes with same depth, the optimal area for building main well and mining area is determined eventually is around
96-5#.
Damping Prediction Technique of the Bolted Joint Structure Considering Pretension Force
Authors: Sun Delin , Liao Ridong
Published: September 2015

At the initial phase of the mechanical product development, it is very important to effectively obtain the modal
damping ratio of the bolted joint structure for accurately predicting dynamic response. The energy dissipation has been estimated
using a finite element model incorporating the effect of pretension force of the bolted joint. First, the modal damping
ratios of the first four modes are extracted by experimental method. Secondly, the lap joint finite element model with
pretension force parameter is constructed and based on which, modal analysis of the structure is conducted. The modal
shape scaling results are used as the boundary conditions of the finite element model and the energy dissipations and modal
damping ratios of the lap joint under different pretension forces are calculated out. By comparing the numerical calculation
result and the experimental result, the validation of the damping prediction approach proposed in this paper is
proved.
Seismic Resistance and Damping Model Test and Numerical Simulation of Highway Tunnel
Authors: Zheng Sheng Bao , Jiang Shu Ping
Published: September 2015

In this paper,we established a seismic resistance and damping model to study the effects of tunnel under seismic
waves.We took the entrance of Galongla Tunnel as prototype, drafted the similarity relationships of the
model.Damping layers and the measuring points of shaking table model have been arranged. We carried out loading test
of the shaking table. Compared with the results of finite element analysis, the damping ratio has been defined to analyze
the dynamic characteristics and the effect of damping layers. We come to conclusion that damping layers have some effects
and surrounding rocks can filter high frequency components of the seismic waves.
In Vitro Fertilization for Endometriosis-Associated Infertility
Authors: Polat Mehtap , Yaralı Irem , Boynukalın Kübra , Yaralı Hakan
Published: September 2015

Endometriosis is an enigmatic disease affecting 10–15% of reproductive aged women and is encountered in 25–35% of women suffering from infertility. IVF is an effective tool to overcome endometriosis-associated infertility when expectant management or surgery fails. Direct IVF should be envisioned if the female age is greater than 38 year and infertility is long lasting. Likewise, semen characteristics or tubal status that is incompatible with natural conception mandates going straight to IVF. IVF, not only bypasses the distortion of pelvic anatomy associated with advanced stage endometriosis, but also removes gametes from a hostile peritoneal environment. In this article, we address the impact, if any, of endometriosis and endometriomason IVF outcome, whether surgical treatment of early-stage disease, endometriomas or deep infiltrating endometriosis would enhance pregnancy rates in IVF, which protocol to employ for controlled ovarian hyperstimulation for IVF and finally the impact, if any, of controlled ovarian hyperstimulation for IVF on progression of endometriosis.
Concentration of mercury and selenium in tissues of five cetacean species from Croatian coastal waters
Authors: Bilandzic Nina , Sedak Marija , Djokic Maja , Djuras Martina , Gomercic Tomislav , Benic Miroslav , Simic Branimir
Published: September 2015

Mercury (Hg) and selenium (Se) concentrations were measured in muscle, liver,
kidney, spleen and lung tissues of five cetacean species, three dolphin
(Stenella coeruleoalba, Tursiops truncatus and Grampus griseus) and two whale
species (Balaenoptera physalus and Ziphius cavirostris), stranded along the
Croatian coast during the period 1999-2002. Statistically significant
differences in Hg concentrations in muscle, spleen and lung, and Se in liver
and lung of the different dolphin species were observed. Mercury levels in
liver and spleen and Se levels in liver differed between young and adult T.
truncatus species. A significant positive correlation between different
tissue types for Hg and Se concentrations was observed. In all tissues
tested, the lowest Hg and Se concentrations were found in B. physalus.
Mercury concentrations were positively correlated with Se in all tissues. The
results present one of few studies related to lung and spleen tissues in
these mammals, particularly in the Adriatic Sea. Since very little data are
available, this research provides new data on concentrations of Hg and Se in
five cetacean species from the Adriatic Sea basin.
Association of the Interleukin-2 gene polymorphism with egg performance in a native turkey population
Authors: Erfaniasl Zahra , Hashemi Ali , Zarringhabaie Ghorban , Farhadian Mohammad
Published: September 2015

Interleukin-2 (IL2) is a powerful growth factor for a variety of cell types,
including T-cells, and therefore plays a crucial role in immune system's
functioning. Polymorphism of the Interleukin-2 gene in west Azerbaijan native
turkey was investigated using PCR and single-stranded conformation
polymorphism technique (SSCP). Genomic DNA of 185 turkey samples was isolated
from whole blood. A 523-bp IL2 second exon with part of the third intron
segment was amplified by standard PCR, using locus-specific primers. Three
SSCP patterns, representing three different genotypes, were identified. The
frequencies of the genotypes were 13.83%, 8.51% and 77.66 % for AA, BB and
AB, respectively. Allele frequencies were 52.65% and 47.35 %for A and B
respectively. Observed heterozygosity was 0.6196. There was a significant
deviation from the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium for this locus. Relationships
between molecular polymorphism in the second exon with part of the third
intron regions of Interleukin-2 and number of eggs, average weight of eggs
(g) and weight of egg mass production (g) were investigated. The results
showed that the AA genotype was associated with the number of eggs and Weight
of egg mass production (g) (P ? 0.01). No correlation between the second exon
and part of the third intron Interleukin-2 variants with the average weight
of eggs was found (g). We expect that this gene could be a candidate for the
genetic improvement of some economic traits in turkey breeding programs.
Interpretation of genotype × environment interaction in perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.)
Authors: Lakic Zeljko , Balalic Igor , Vojin Svetko
Published: September 2015

The aim of this field study was to evaluate genotype ? year interaction for
spike length, 1000 seed weight, seed number per g and hectoliter mass in
perennial ryegrass, using eight divergent genotypes across two growing
seasons. Interaction was evaluated using AMMI (Additive Main Effects and
Multiplicative Interaction) model. All traits schowed additive (genotype,
year) and non additive (genotype ? year interaction) variation. On the basis
od AMMI1 biplot genotype G4 showed most stability for all examined traits, so
it can be recommended for sowing in different environmental conditions. Also,
the genotype G4 could be used in the creation of new local varieties of
perennial ryegrass.
Studies on fluctuating asymmetry (FA) for certain morphological traits in four species of the Drosophila bipectinata complex
Authors: Banerjee Parul , Singh Narayan
Published: September 2015

Fluctuating asymmetry (FA) is defined as subtle deviations from perfect
bilateral symmetry, evident in differences between the right and the left
sides of any given trait. It is a pattern of variation between sides and
measures developmental instability. Differences in the level of FA may be
used for comparing developmental precision among closely related species and
thus may give an idea whether developmental stability was affected during the
divergence and separation of populations into distinct species. Keeping this
in view, FA was studied in four species of the Drosophila bipectinata complex
i.e. D. bipectinata, D. parabipectinata, D. malerkotliana and D.
pseudoananassae. In females of all the four species, FA values did not vary
significantly for any of the traits considered. However, in case of males,
they varied significantly for Wing length (WL) and sex comb tooth number
(SCTN). Also, while in females Composite fluctuating asymmetry (CFA) did not
exhibit significant variation, in males it was found to vary significantly
across the four species. However, Bonferroni t-tests did not reveal any
consistent difference in FA levels between any two species. The magnitude of
FA was found to differ significantly among traits and CFA values were found
to be higher for males than females in all the four species. Therefore, it
may be concluded that the level of FA shows trait specific variations and
males are more prone to developmental perturbations. However, the FA levels
are more or less similar in all the four species of this complex. Thus,
developmental precision remains nearly same in all the four species of this
complex irrespective of the degree of evolutionary divergence reached.
Evaluation of sunflower grain yield components under different levels of soil water stress in Azerbaijan
Authors: Gholinezhad Esmaeel , Darvishzadeh Reza , Bernousi Iraj
Published: September 2015

In order to study yield and yield components of sunflower landraces under
water deficit conditions, an experiment was conducted in the experimental
field of Agricultural Research Center, West-Azerbaijan in 2012-2013 cropping
seasons. The selected genotypes were evaluated in a rectangular 7 ? 8 lattice
design with two replications. They were treated by three irrigation scenarios
including optimum irrigation, moderate stress and severe stress where
irrigation was done after depletion of 50%, 70% and 90% of available water,
respectively. A number of 56 confectionary sunflower landraces were
investigated in this experiment. The results of combined analyzes showed that
the single and combined effect of water treatments and genotypes on the
majority of traits under study were significant. With increasing the severity
of drought stress, grain yield, kernel to grain ratio, number of seeds per
head, head diameter, 1000-seed?s weight, biological yield and harvest index
decreased while the hollowness percentage increased. Among the studied
landraces, the highest grain yield was obtained from 'Angane 4' in optimum
irrigation condition whereas in moderate and severe stress, 'Garagoz 1' and
'Salmas-Sadaghian' produced higher grain yield than the other landraces,
respectively. At each level of irrigation, genotypes had different responses
so that the suitable genotypes could be chosen for different conditions.
Evaluation of drought tolerance in new Bulgarian sweet corn genotypes with using stress tolerance indices
Authors: Shtereva Lydia , Vassilevska-Ivanova Roumiana , Kraptchev Boris
Published: September 2015

Two inbred lines and their heterotic F1 hybrid of sweet corn (Zea mays L.
var. rugosa Bonaf.) were evaluated to assess their reaction for PEG-mediated
water stress at the seedling stage in terms of various physiological and
biochemical traits. Water potentials were: zero as control and -0.6, -0.9,
-1.2 and -1.5 MPa as treatments. Stress- determining parameters such as
proline content, malondiadehyde, and hydrogen peroxide were measured. In
water stress, the germination was inversely proportional to the Polyethylene
glycol concentrations in all three genotypes; roots and shoots length, fresh
and dry weight decreased with an increasing of polyethylene glycol
concentration. Malondiadehyde, proline, and hydrogen peroxide were found to
be increased at different osmotic gradients in comparison to control. The
data observed in the experiments revealed that the line C-6 might be used as
a very promising parent to breed and select new drought tolerant sweet corn
hybrids. Such a suggestion needs to be further explored by involving a larger
set of sweet corn lines and hybrids.
Evolution of hypothalamus-pituitary growth axis among fish, amphibian, birds and mammals
Authors: Moaeen-Ud-Din M. , Bilal G. , Reecy James
Published: September 2015

Hypothalamus-pituitary growth axis (HP growth axis) regulates animal growth
and development in pre-natal and post natal life governed by many factors.
However, until recently, the evolutionary history of this axis among lineages
is not understood. Aim of the present study was to understand the major
events in evolution and evolutionary history and trend of HP growth axis. The
diversity among Homo sapience, Mus musculus, Rattus norvegicus, Gallus
gallus, Danio rerio and Xenopus laevis was determined for genes involved in
HP growth axis in current study. Sequences of HP growth axis genes were
retrieved from NCBI (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/). Nucleotide diversity
using Kimura?s two-parameter method; codon-based test of positive selection
using the Nei-Gojobori; equality of evolutionary rate with Tajima's relative
rate test and phylogenetic history using the RelTime method were estimated in
MEGA6. Estimates of the coefficients of evolutionary differentiation based on
nucleotides and amino acids substitution patterns of HP growth axis genes
showed contrasting evolutionary patterns among the lineages. The results
demonstrated that although these genes might have crucial functional roles in
each of the species, however, their sequence divergence did not necessarily
reflect similar molecular evolution among the species. Codon-based test of
positive selection revealed that Human vs Mouse, Chicken vs Rat, Human vs Rat
and Mouse vs Rat had similar and higher non synonymous substitutions (P >
0.05). Higher rate of non-synonymous substitutions at similar orthologs level
among species indicated a similar positive selection pressure in these
species. Results for relative rate test assessed with the chi-squared test
showed difference on unique mutations among lineages at synonymous and non
synonymous sites except Chicken vs Mouse, Human vs Mouse, Chicken vs Rat,
Human vs Rat and Mouse vs Rat. This indicated that the mutagenic process that
generates substitutional mutation is taking place at approximately the same
rate at synonymous and non-synonymous sites these lineages. Moreover, despite
of common ancestry, our results indicate a different divergent time among
genes of these species. This is the first demonstration that variable rates
of molecular evolution may be present within HP growth axis genes among
different species. This difference could be of interest for comparative
genomics analysis and physiological genes functions identification among tho
comparative genomics, evolution rate, HP growth axis, positive selection se
species whose HP growth axis is not explored.
Performance of Iris variegata genotypes in different light conditions: Flowering phenology and reproductive output
Authors: Zivkovic Uros , Miljkovic Danijela , Barisic-Klisaric Natasa , Tarasjev Aleksej , Avramov Stevan
Published: September 2015

We analyzed genetic variability and phenotypic plasticity of flowering
pattern and reproductive success in 97 clonal genotypes of Iris variegata
originating from contrasting light habitats in Deliblato Sands and expressed
under different experimental light conditions. Rhizome segments were taken
from each of these clones and transplanted in the experimental garden near
the Institute for Biological Research in Belgrade. Significant differences
between genotypes were found for two traits (start of flowering, average
flowering time). Genotypes originating from open and understory habitats
significantly differed for three traits (number of flowers, number of
capsules/number of flowers, seed mass/capsule). Significant effect of light
treatment were found for three traits (number of capsules/number of flowers,
seed mass/capsule, average seed mass). Statistically significant correlations
between explored traits were generally similar but also to some extent
habitat and treatment specific. Comparing these results with research carried
out on congeneric species we noted that there are similar responses for some
traits, but also significant differences in some components of flowering and
fruiting success.
Mistaken Endobronchial Placement of a Nasogastric Tube During Mandibular Fracture Surgery
Authors: Kalava Arun , Clark Kirpal , McIntyre John , Yarmush Joel M. , Lizardo Teresita
Published: September 2015

A 64-year-old male had an awake right nasal fiber-optic intubation with an endotracheal tube for open reduction and internal fixation of bilateral displaced mandibular fractures. After induction of anesthesia, an 18 Fr nasogastric tube (NGT) was inserted through the left nostril and was secured. The patient required high flow rates to deliver adequate tidal volumes with the ventilator. A chest x-ray done in the postanesthesia care unit revealed a malpositioned NGT in the left lower lobe bronchus, which was immediately removed. The patient was extubated on postoperative day 2. Various traditional methods, such as aspiration of gastric contents, auscultation of gastric insufflations, and chest x-ray are in use to detect or prevent the misplacement of an NGT. These methods can be unreliable or impractical. Use of capnography to detect an improperly placed NGT should be considered in the operating room as a simple, cost-effective method with high sensitivity to prevent possibly serious sequelae of an NGT placed within the bronchial tree.
Does scientific forest management promote plant species diversity and regeneration in Sal (Shorea robusta) forest? A case study from Lumbini collaborative forest, Rupandehi, Nepal
Authors: Awasthi N. , Bhandari S. K. , Khanal Y.
Published: September 2015

Scientific forest management is an emerging need for managing existing natural forests of Nepal on the basis of silvicultural intervention. The study was carried out in Lumbini Collaborative Forest at Rupandehi District of Nepal, where Sal (Shorea robusta) forests are being managed under Irregular Shelterwood System with eighty years of cutting cycle since 2011–2012. The study was purposed to find out the intial effects of silvicultural intervention on plant species diversity and regeneration of Sal forest. The vegetative sampling was done using quadrate method based on the principle of simple random sampling both in the managed as well as the unmanaged parts of forest. The study found out remarkable increase in regeneration as well as decrease in plant diversity in the managed first and second-year stands (Block I and Block II respectively) as compared to the unmanaged stand (Block III) at its initial level of implementation. The mean value of diversity, richness, evenness, dominance index and regeneration of S. robusta varied significantly (p?0.05) between the managed blocks (stands). The seedling density of S. robusta was found higher in the managed blocks (Block I and Block II) as compared to the unmanaged one (Block III) in terms of height class. The study recommends implementation of Irregular Shelterwood System for managing the existing degraded Sal forests of the Terai region of Nepal, however, its long term effects on plant species diversity should be further studied in detail.Banko Janakari, A Journal of Forestry Information for NepalVol. 25, No. 1Page: 20-29
Assessing vulnerability and adaptation strategies of forest dependent people to climate change in the Mid-hills of Nepal
Authors: Acharya K. , Tiwari K. R. , Timilsina Y. P. , PC S
Published: September 2015

Climate change is now recognized as one of the most serious challenges facing the world– its people, the environment and its economies. Rural people are more vulnerable to the effects of climate change due to its high dependence on climate-sensitive sectors like glaciers, agriculture and forestry, and its low financial adaptive capacity. This study was carried out with the aim of assessing and documenting vulnerability and adaptation strategies of forest-dependent people to climate change effects in Mid-hills of Nepal. Primary data were collected from household survey, interview with key informants, and focused group discussion. The results showed that the average annual rainfall was decreasing at the rate of 18.02 mm whereas the average annual mean temperature was increasing at the rate of 0.07°c per year. The major climatic hazards, of the study area, identified were long drought and landslide. The chi-square test shows that the poor forest-dependent people are more vulnerable to long drought, landslide and floods as compared to the rich rural people. Indigenous adaptation practices such as cultivation of vegetables and other crops that are less susceptible to droughts, and rearing of hybrid-varieties of livestock are mostly used to cope with climate change impacts. The results indicate that 15% of the respondents have changed their cropping pattern from paddy to off-seasonal vegetables crops because of more income from vegetable farming. Raising awareness and sharing information as well as increasing income from farming among the locals by applying new technologies should be done in order to build their capacity to cope with climate change impact.Banko Janakari, A Journal of Forestry Information for NepalVol. 25, No. 1Page: 55-62
Potential of Global Health Education in Low-Income Settings
Authors: Karmacharya BM
Published: September 2015

Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 11(4): 266-267
Comparative Study of Hyperbaric Bupivacaine Plus Ketamine Vs Bupivacaine Plus Fentanyl for Spinal Anaesthesia during Caeserean Section
Authors: Shrestha SK , Bhattarai B , Shah R
Published: September 2015

Background Spinal anesthesia is widely used for caesarean section due to its rapid onset, low failure rate, complete analgesia. Addition of intrathecal ketamine and opioids to local anaesthetics seems to improve the quality of block and prolong the duration of analgesia.Objectives The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of intrathecal ketamine mixed with hyperbaric bupivacaine to intrathecal fentanyl mixed with hyperbaric bupivacaine.Methods One hundred parturients ASA Grade I scheduled for elective or semiurgent caesarean section under spinal anaesthesia were randomly divided into two groups. Group A received 2ml (10 mg) hyperbaric bupivacaine 0.5% plus 25 mg preservative free ketamine. Group B received 2ml (10mg) hyperbaric bupivacaine 0.5% plus 25?g fentanyl. The patients were observed intraoperatively for the onset of sensory block, degree of motor block and total duration of analgesia.Results The time to achieve Bromage scale 3 motor blockade was shorter in Group A than in Group B.(p= 0.445) whereas time to achieve highest dermatomal level of sensory block was shorter in Group A than in Group B (p= 0.143). The duration of spinal analgesia was longer in Group B than in Group A (p= 0.730). The frequency of side effect such as sedation score was higher in Group A compared to Group B (p= 0.048). The incidence of pruritus was significantly higher in Group B compared to Group A (p = 0.000).Conclusion Addition of preservative free ketamine lead to faster onset of sensory and motor blockade, although it did not prolong the duration of spinal analgesia compared to addition of fentanyl in parturients undergoing caesarean section with spinal anaesthesia.Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 11(4): 287-291
Clinicoradiologic Evaluation of Eagle’s Syndrome and its Management
Authors: Pokharel M , Karki S , Shrestha I , Shrestha BL , Khanal K , Amatya RCM
Published: September 2015

Background Eagle’s syndrome (Elongated styloid process) is often misdiagnosed due to its vague symptomatology. The diagnosis relies on detail history taking, palpation of styloid process in tonsillar fossa and imaging modalities.Objective To assess the length and medial angulation of elongated styloid process with the help of three dimensional computed tomography (3D CT) scan and to describe our clinical and surgical experience with patients suffering from Eagle’s syndrome.Method Prospective, analytical study conducted from August 2011 to August 2012 among 39 patients with Eagle’s syndrome. Detailed history taking, clinical examination and 3D CT scan was performed. Length and medial angulation was calculated. Patients with styloid process length longer than 2.50 cm underwent surgical excision via intraoral approach. Medial angulation of styloid process on both sides was correlated with each other using rank correlation coefficient. Wilcoxon Signed Rank test was applied to test significant difference between pre-operative and post-operative symptoms scores.Result Significant positive correlation was found between the medial angulation of styloid process on right side and left side (? =0.81, p<0.001). Significant difference was also observed between pre and post-operative symptoms scores (z=-5.16, p<0.001) .Conclusion Possibility of Eagle’s syndrome should always be considered while examining patients with vague neck pain. 3D CT reconstruction is a gold standard investigation which helps in studying the relation of styloid process with surrounding structures along with accurate measurement of its length and medial angulation.Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 11(4): 305-309
Clinical Profile and Antibiotics Sensitivity in Childhood Urinary Tract Infection at Dhulikhel Hospital
Authors: Singh SD , Madhup SK
Published: September 2015

Background Urinary Tract Infection implies presence of actively multiplying organisms in the urinary tract. Although it is infrequently associated with mortality, it is still a significant cause of morbidity. Early diagnosis is critical to preserve renal function of growing kidney.Objective Our purpose was to determine the clinical, microbiologic profile and antibiotic sensitivity of such infections in pediatric Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) patients at Dhulikhel Hospital.Methods A hospital based prospective descriptive study of 135 children from 2 months to 16 years, with clinical diagnosis of urinary tract infection who visited the pediatric department of Dhulikhel Hospital over the period of 15 months were enrolled in the study. All patients underwent routine urine analysis and culture. Children with recurrent UTI underwent micturating cystourethrogram (MCUG). Children with recurrent UTI of more than two years and with feature of pyelonephritis underwent USG abdomen as well. Complications and response of the treatment was observed in all cases of UTI. All data were entered in Epidata and data analysis was done using spss 16 version.Results Among 135 children, 32.5% were male and 67.4% were female. Fever was the most common presenting symptom in 74.80% of patients followed by dysuria in 54.1%. Among these children 95.6% had significant pyuria and 45% had culture positive infection. Children who showed positive for bacteriuria, Escherichia coli (78.7%) was the most common organism and are more than 80% sensitive to Amikacin, Gentamicin, Ceftriaxone, Ofloxacin, Nalidixic acid, Imipenem and Vancomycin. Co-trimoxazole was the most common drug used for treatment with a mean drug respond time of (mean±S.D) of 2.21±.78 days. 2±±. Children who had recurrent UTI were more prone to develop culture positive UTI (p=0.0001).Conclusion Urinary Tract Infection in female was almost twice more common than in male. Co-trimoxazole was the most common drug used for treatment, sensitivity of this drug was less than 50% for all organisms.Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 11(4): 319-324
Custom Milled Zirconia Implant Supporting an Ceramic Zirconia Restoration: A Clinical Report
Authors: Nair A , Prithviraj DR , Regish KM , Prithvi S
Published: September 2015

Dental implants constitute a well-established approach for replacement of lost teeth with titanium being the most favored material for implantation. However, titanium has its limitations in esthetically demanding cases and neither the form nor material of such implants has changed much over the past 40 years. Today, there is scientific evidence that zirconia dental implants osseointegrate well and offer many advantages over titanium implants. This report demonstrates the successful clinical use of a custom milled root analogue zirconia implant for single tooth replacement. A left maxillary first molar was removed, allowed to heal for four months and a custom-made, root-analogue, roughened zirconia was fabricated and placed. Subsequently it was restored with zirconia all ceramic crown. No complications occurred during the healing period. This successful case warrants further clinical research on zirconia custom milled implants in well controlled trials.Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 11(4): 328-331
Endodontic Management of Radix Paramolaris with Six Canals: A Clinical Case Report
Authors: Acharya N , Singh A , Samant PS , Gautam V
Published: September 2015

Endodontic therapy of mandibular molars is a challenging task due to its varied root canal morphology. A mandibular first molar with additional buccal root (Radix paramolaris) and additional distolingual root (Radix Entomolaris) is an example of its varied anatomy. A successful management of atypical root canal configurations is an important aspect in determining the success rate of root canal therapy. The detail knowledge of the root morphology and canal anatomy allows the clinician for accurate location of the extra roots and canals and accordingly the refinement of the access cavity for the stress free entry of complex anatomy. Hence, for a successful root canal therapy, clinician must be aware of the external and internal anatomic variations .The aim of this clinical case report is to present and describe the unusual presence of two separate mesial roots and six root canals in mandibular first molar, detected during routine endodontic therapy.Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 11(4): 338-341
Vertical Gaze Palsy with Skew Deviation
Authors: Pokharel BR , Thapa LJ , Paudel R , Rana PVS
Published: September 2015

With the advancement of neuroradiology, clinical localization followed by radiology, had made neurology more interesting. Vertical gage palsy as presentation cerebrovascular disease is not so common. Vertical gaze palsy usually localizes the lesion to dorsal mid brain. A 56 years male patient presented with sudden onset vertigo, diplopia, transient loss of consciousness and sways toward right side while walking. Clinical examination showed vertical gaze palsy with skew deviation along with swaying towards rt. during walk. MRI brain showed – infarct involving dorsal midbrain at superior colliculus level and medial thalamusKathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 11(4): 342-343
Esthetics in Removable Partial Denture - A Review
Authors: Shah R , Aras M
Published: September 2015

Removable partial denture is a repulsive modality of treatment that we still must rely upon for certain cases and is a part of the practice. But these patients expect it to look as esthetic as any other contemporary modality of treatment. This article thus focuses on the esthetic aspects that a clinician must place emphasis upon during the designing and fabrication of prosthesis to provide the desirable outcome.Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 11(4): 344-348
Transportation Engineering Instructional Practices
Authors: Hurwitz David S. , Bernhardt Kristen L. Sanford , Turochy Rod E. , Young Rhonda K.
Published: September 2015

Instructional practices in transportation engineering education are evolving, and only some of these changes have been documented in the literature. This paper provides a systematic review of journal articles and refereed conference papers that address innovations in transportation engineering education; the focus is on novel instructional practices and their influence on student learning. The literature review finds 46 articles for analysis, with an increasing frequency of those publications over time. Instructional practices described in these papers include simulation, visualization, problem-based learning, and other active-learning techniques. Most of these articles were written by individual researchers or a team of researchers at a single institution, and few of the articles cite one another; this finding suggests a need for more effective dissemination. Techniques for measuring student learning include in-person interviews, a variety of survey types (typically multiple choice or open-ended), concept maps, and direct assessment of student work. These techniques are implemented mostly as postassessments, but in some work, a pre- and postcourse experimental design is employed. It is clear that more rigorous evaluation of student learning, resulting from changes in teaching practices, should be considered. This analytical review of the literature provides a resource for transportation engineering educators to identify pedagogical practices that are relevant to their courses and suggestions for how to measure the effect of these techniques on student learning.