bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fibroepithelial polyp/skin tag  unusual presentation - A Case Report
Authors: Quamruzzaman M , Das KK , Khondoker MS
Published: October 2011

An 18 year old female had presented with multiple skin tags all over her body. She is bearing these extensive skin tags since her very childhood. Her mother and younger sisters also have similar skin tags but not so extensive. So far the polyps were symptomless until she reached seventeen. At this time these grew excessively both in numbers and size, particularly at the cheek, nasolabial folds and lateral nasal wall of both sides. These also became infected and were very uncomfortable and unsightly. The lesion was biopsied and said Fibroepithelial polyp and there were no malignant changes. She was admitted in the ENT department of DMCH on 27-6-08 and was operated upon by joint team of Plastic and ENT Surgeons on 21-7-08. The polyps along with underlying skin was excised, full thickness graft was given to cover the defect. Donor site was medial aspect of right forearm. She was followed up for three months with no recurrence of the polyps in the grafted areas and graft color was satisfactory. Apart from mental retardation and frequent violent irrational behavior no other systemic illnesses was found in this patient.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bdjps.v1i1.6491Bangladesh Journal of Plastic Surgery (2010) Vol. 1 (1) pp.33-35
We remember with gratitude their great contributions in laying the foundations of Plastic Surgery in this Country
Authors: Editor The
Published: October 2011

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bdjps.v1i1.6492
Management of chickpea pod borer, helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) using neem seed extract and lambda-cyhalothrin in high barind tract
Authors: Hossain MS , Islam MS , Salam MA , Hossain MA , Salma MU
Published: October 2011

Context: Lamda cyhalothrin and neem seed extract can protect chickpea by controlling pod borer Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner).   Objective: To find out the effect of neem seed extract and lambda-cyhalothrin application schedule for the effective and economic management of pod borer attacking chickpea. Materials and Methods: The experiments were conducted in High Barind Tract of northern Bangladesh with the application of neem seed extract @ 50 g-l (two and three spraying) and lambda-cyhalothrin. (Karate 2.5 EC) @ 2 ml-l (two and three spraying) and untreated control. The seeds of BARI-Chola 5 chickpea were sown in rows with the spacing of 40 cm. At maturity, all the pods were collected from 10 randomly selected plants from middle rows of each plot. The damaged (bored) and total numbers of pod were counted. The grain yield loss (kg-ha) and percent pod damage were determined. The seed yield of each treatment was converted to kg-ha.   Results: The lowest pod damage (2.55%) as well as grain yield loss (34.90 kg-ha) were observed in the treatment where lamda cyhalothrin applied three times at 7 days interval from flowering stage. Chickpea seed yield was maximum (1338 kg-ha) with lamda cyhalothrin sprayed thrice which was identical to sprayed twice (1280 kg-ha). Neem seed extract showed a marginal performance to control chickpea pod borer. The highest marginal benefit cost ratio (3.19) was recorded from lamda cyhalothrin sprayed twice.   Conclusion: Lamda cyhalothrin double sprayed with 7 days interval from pod formation stage is the best package in managing pod borer in chickpea considering efficacy and profitability.   Keywords: Chickpea; pod borer; pod damage; pesticides; yield. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbs.v18i0.8774 JBS 2010; 18(0): 44-48
Influence of juvenile hormone analogue and insulin applied at third and fourth instar on some larval and cocoon characters in bombyx mori L.
Authors: Mali SG , Khyade VB
Published: October 2011

Context: Juvenile hormone and insulin prolongs the larval duration in mulberry silkworm thereby extending the feeding period which results in an increase in cocoon weight and cocoon shell weight. The larval treatment with Juvenile Hormone analogue could be utilized to increase silk production.   Objective: The objectives of the study is to find out the influence of a Juvenile Hormone analogue, Manta and human insulin to the larval instars of silkworm, Bombyx mori (L) (PM x CSR2) on larval growth, development and cocoon characters.   Materials and Methods: The disease free layings of polyvoltine race (PM x CSR2) of silkworm, B. mori were used for the study. The acetone solution of manta was used for topical application to third and fourth instar larvae at 36 hours after second and third moult at the rate of 8 ml solution application to the group of 100 larvae through hand sprayer. For insulin treatment 100 g fresh mulberry leaves were soaked in 300 ml of aqueous solution of insulin for half an hour. The first feeding after treating the larvae with manta consisted of insulin treated leaves. The pre-cocooning parameters such as larval duration, larval weight, silkgland weight and the post cocooning parameters such as female and male cocoon weights and their shell weights and shell ratio were calculated.   Results: The results indicate the larval duration and larval and silkgland weight significantly increased after treatment with manta or manta followed by insulin treatments. The results of the present study suggest that the treatment with manta followed by insulin yields heavier cocoons and cocoon shells in both the sexes than those obtained after treatment with manta or insulin.   Conclusion: It can be suggested that the treatment with Manta followed by insulin may be utilized to increase silk production by increasing the heavier larva, cocoon, shell.   Keywords: Bombyx mori; silkworm; Juvenile hormone; Manta; insulin. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbs.v18i0.8775 JBS 2010; 18(0): 49-52
Biological activities of isolated compounds from vitex negundo leaf
Authors: Chowdhury NY , Islam W , Khalequzzaman M
Published: October 2011

Context: Viyex negundo Linn. (Verbenaceae) is a beautiful tree which is an erect, large aromatic shrub with quadrangular branchlets possess pesticidal, antibacterial and antifungal properties.   Objective: To determine the biological activities (antibacterial, antifungal, brine shrimp lethality bioassay) of the two isolated compounds from methanolic leaf extract.   Materials and Methods: Powdered leaves of nishinda were extracted with methanol using Soxhlet’s apparatus and subsequent analyses isolated two compounds. Five gram-positive, eight Gram-negative bacterial strains were used for the antibacterial activity using the disc diffusion assay method. The antifungal activities of the isolated compounds were also performed on four pathogenic fungi. Each pure compound was dissolved in 200 μl of methanol to get a concentration 300 μg/10 μl. Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations were determined by serial dilution technique. For brineshrimp bioassay each compound and standard amphicilin trihydrate were dissolved in dimethylsulfoxide to get a five concentrations. Each concentration contained three vials consisting of 10 nauplii in 5 ml of treated sea water. The number of survived nauplii were counted after 24 h and the LD50 values were calculated.   Results: The zone of inhibition was prominent for the control (kanamycin) at concentration of 30 μg/disc. At 100 μg/disc Compound 1 exhibited bigger and more prominent clear zone of growth inhibition in all test microorganisms except Shigella shiga. On the contrary, Compound 2 at 100 μg/disc, showed clear zone of inhibition in all bacteria, but inhibition of zones were larger in Compound 1 than Compound 2. Antimicrobial effect of Compound 2 tested on different pathogenic bacteria (MIC 128 μg/ml) and fungi showed that it possesses growth inhibitory effect at various concentrations. MIC of Compound 1 for B. subtilis, S. aureus and S. B-haemolyticus was 64 μg/ml, whereas for P. aeruginosa it was 128 μg/ml (Table 2). MIC of Compound 2 was 128 μg/ml for B. subtilis, S.-β-haemolyticus and P. aeruginosa whereas it was 64 μg/ml for S. aureus. No fungal activity was observed for Compound 1. Clear inhibition zone was observed for Compound 2 at both concentrations for all of the pathogenic fungi tested. At 100 μg/disc Compound 2 exhibited bigger and prominent clear zone than 50 μg/disc.. Brine shrimp bioassay showed the toxic effect of the both the compounds.   Conclusion: The findings indicate promising antibacterial and antifungal activities of V. negundo against life treating pathogens which appears to be an effective material for development of antimicrobial drugs and ecofriendly biopesticides.   Keywords: Vitex negundo; Antimicrobial; MIC; bacteria; phytochemical; medicinal plant activity; brineshrimp DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbs.v18i0.8776 JBS 2010; 18(0): 53-59
Morphometric analysis of indigenous, exotic and crossbred chickens (gallus domesticus L.) In Rajshahi, Bangladesh
Authors: Islam M Saiful , Dutta Ripon Kumar
Published: October 2011

Context: The quantification of morphometric variations has been regarded as peripheral to the mechanistic study of development of a species. This is now changing because the rapidly advancing knowledge of development in post-genomic biology is creating a need for more refined measurements of the morphometric changes produced by genetic perturbations or treatments.   Objective: To estimate the age at marketable size and body morphometric parameters of indigenous, exotic and crossbred chicken to use such parameters as discriminate variables and to investigate the relationships among the variables of the chicken breeds under study.   Materials and Methods: Six chicken breeds namely an indigenous (non descriptive, Deshi), four exotics as Broiler, Cockerel, Fayoumi and RIR, and a crossbred called Sonali (RIR?× Fayoumi?), were used for the study.   Results: Age and nine morphometric parameters viz., gross weight (GW), blood weight (BW), feather weight (FW), skin weight (SW), body weight after skinning (BWS), visceral weight (VW), offal weight (OW), net edible weight (NEW) and edible ratio (ER), were determined from a total of 30 adult chickens (6 breeds _ 5 replicates each). All the parameters except FW showed significant differences among the breeds (P<0.01). RIR showed the highest values for all parameters except ER, which was the highest in Cockerel (1.77±0.23) and the lowest in RIR (1.47±0.01). Association between GW and NEW was statistically significant in Indigenous (P<0.001), Sonali (P<0.01) and all exotics except Broiler (P<0.001).   Conclusion: Present results indicate that Cockerel, Fayoumi, Indigenous and Sonali chickens are advantageous genotypes as they had higher ER values compared to Broiler and RIR breeds.   Keywords: Gallus domesticus; body morphometric traits; net edible weight; edible ratio DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbs.v18i0.8782 JBS 2010; 18(0): 94-98
In vitro regeneration of pumpkin (cucurbita maxima) through shoot apical meristem
Authors: Haque ME , Rezwana D , Islam MA , Sikdar B
Published: October 2011

Context: Pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima) is very important vegetable crop. It is damaged by several types of diseases, especially viral diseases which reduce the total yield of pumpkin. This is very difficult problem and such type of problem can be overcome by meristem culture. Objectives: To develop suitable protocols for indirect regeneration of pumpkin plant through shoot apical meristem.   Materials and Methods: Meristems were isolated from 15-21 days in vivo grown plants by collecting shoot tips and were prepared (0.2-0.5 mm) under 4X zoom stereo-microscope remaining two leaves primordia. Inoculation of explants was made singly per culture vessel in semisolid MS fortified with different concentrations and combinations of cytokinin and auxin.   Results: Among different concentrations, 1.0 mg/l BAP showed best response for callus induction. Calli were sub cultured for shoot formation in MS containing BAP singly or combination with GA3 and 1.5 mg/l BAP + 0.1 mg/l GA3 gave better result. In vitro regenerated shoots were rooted well in ½ strength MS with 0.5 mg/l IBA and micro plants were acclimatized successfully in natural condition.   Conclusion: Indirect regeneration of pumpkin plants through shoot apical meristem has been established.   Keywords: Growth regulators; in vitro regeneration; Pumpkin; Cucurbita maxima. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbs.v18i0.8784 JBS 2010; 18(0): 104-107
Phototherapy in different stages of birth weight for the treatment of neonatal hyperbilirubinaemia
Authors: Paul T , Parial R , Hasem MA , Mojumder S , Islam MM , Junaid MM , Das M , Alauddin M
Published: October 2011

Context: The goal of phototherapy is to lower the concentration of circulating bilirubin or keep it from increasing in the treatment of neonatal unconjugated hyperbilirubinaemia. As phototherapy decrease billirubin level of infants, it is important to fix the dose of phototherapy.   Objectives: The aim of the study was to compare the effectiveness of double phototherapy versus conventional single phototherapy in the treatment of neonatal unconjugated hyperbilirubinaemia.   Materials and Methods: For this purpose 50 term and preterm newborns were enrolled. They were divided into 2 groups, 38 newborns were taken in group 1 and 12 newborn were taken in group 2. The babies who got conventional single phototherapy were taken in group 1. Each group was again divided into 3 subgroups according to their birth weight Normal Birth Weight (NBW), = Low Birth Weight (LBW) and Very Low Birth Weight (VLBW).   Results: The serum bilirubin level of term babies were found 17.32 ± 4.08 mg/dl and in preterm babies were found 13.17 ± 1.49 mg/dl. Neonatal hyperbilirubinaemia in enrolled babies were due to physiologic jaundice (38%), neonatal sepsis (50%) and perinatal asphyxia (12%). The serum bilirubin level in physiological jaundice was found 18.47 ± 5.38 mg/dl, in neonatal sepsis was found 14.90 ± 1.85 mg/dl and in perenatal asphyxia was found 14.10 ± 1.47 mg / dl. Decline rate of serum bilirubin per day was found 4.58 ± 2.43 mg / dl in NBW babies with the use of conventional single phototherapy compared to 6.27 ± 2.26 mg / dl with the use of conventional double phototherapy. In LBW babies decline rate of serum bilirubin per day was found 2.07 ± 0.84 mg / dl with the use of conventional single phototherapy but 4.70 ± 2.08 mg / dl with the use of conventional double phototherapy. In VLBW babies, decline rate of serum bilirubin per day was found 2.24 ± 1.10 mg / dl with the use of conventional single phototherapy. Any VLBW babies which were given conventional double phototherapy were not found. Conclusion: From this study it can be concluded that double phototherapy is more effective than conventional single phototherapy in the treatment of neonatal hyperbilirubinaemia in both groups of neonates; however the rate of fall of bilirubin was higher in NBW subgroups. Keywords: Phototherapy; hyperbilirubinaemia; preterm; term. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbs.v18i0.8786 JBS 2010; 18(0): 116-120
In vitro regeneration for mass propagation in commercial scale of medicinal plant vitex nigundo L.
Authors: Jamal Md Abu Hena Mostofa , Rubaiyath-Bin Rahman ANM , Paul Dipak Kumar , Islam Md Rezuanul
Published: October 2011

Context: It is necessary to focus on the importance of adopting micropropagation technique for mass propagation of the plantlets in commercial scale as well as conservation and distribution of germplasm. Objective: The present investigation has been designed with a view to establishing protocol of in vitro regeneration of medicinal plant species i,e., Vitex nigundo L (Verbenaceae). Materials and Methods: Shoot tips and nodal segments were used for multiple shoot induction. All explants were cultured on MS medium supplemented with various plant growth regulators. HgCl2 was used as surface sterilizing agent. For in vitro rooting, individual shoots (3-4 cm) were cut from the proliferated shoot cultures and implanted on half and full strength of MS with different concentrations and combinations of NAA and IAA. The cultures were incubated for 16 h photoperiod at 25 ± 2ºC under a fluorescent light. Visual observation of culture was made every week. Data on shoot induction and proliferation and root induction were recorded after three weeks of inoculation and used for calculation. For each treatment 15 explants were used and all the treatments were repeated thrice. Established plantlets were transplanted in earthen pots under natural conditions and the survival rate was recorded. Results: The most effective surface sterilization treatment has been found 0.1 % HgCl2 for 7 minutes. Highest number of shoot was observed in MS medium supplemented with 3.0 mg/ BAP. It was rooted well in full MS containing 2.0 mg/l IAA. The survival rate was 85 % and propagated plantlets were successfully acclimatized in soil. Conclusion: It was observed that shoot tips are more responsive for micropropagation of Vitex nigundo L . Thus the fruitful utilization of rapid clonal propagation, germplasm conservation and distribution of Vitex nigundo, important medicinal plant of Bangladesh, is possible. Keywords: Vitex nigundo; Medicinal plant; Shoot induction; Micropropagation; Regeneration. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbs.v18i0.8790 JBS 2010; 18(0): 140-145
A critical assessment of generational accounting and its contribution to the generational equity debate
Authors: Williamson John B. , Rhodes Anna
Published: October 2011

This article describes generational accounting (GA) with a focus on what it brings to the broader literature on generational equity. Our assessment suggests that the GA model has its limitations but is potentially useful in the hands of analysts who are familiar with both the strengths and limitations of the model. It is most useful when the focus is on dealing with intergenerational equity, but it is much less useful when the focus is on issues related to class, race, and other forms intragenerational equity. We conclude that when GA models are used to support calls for retrenchment of public spending on pensions and other social programs that target the older population, it makes sense to recognize that the potential benefits with respect to government debt and deficit reduction and reduced inequality in net tax burdens across age cohorts may come at the cost of increased intragenerational inequality for many workers and retirees.
Suicide among elders: a Durkheimian proposal
Authors: Marson Stephen M. , Powell Rasby Marlene
Published: October 2011

This article proposes a model based on Durkheim’s suicide framework as a tool for enhancing gerontological practitioner’s ability to detect and prevent suicide among elders. Although many suicide detection tools are based on psychological factors, this model focuses on identifying environmental stressors that may increase psychological stressors. To illustrate our concepts, we use case files from one author’s experience as a practicing social worker in nursing homes. We offer this model not as a replacement for psychological detection tools, but as an additional tool for practitioners who work to identify and prevent suicides among the elderly.
An Algorithm to Compute the Character Access Count Distribution for Pattern Matching Algorithms
Authors: Marschall Tobias , Rahmann Sven
Published: October 2011

We propose a framework for the exact probabilistic analysis of window-based pattern matching algorithms, such as Boyer–Moore, Horspool, Backward DAWG Matching, Backward Oracle Matching, and more. In particular, we develop an algorithm that efficiently computes the distribution of a pattern matching algorithm’s running time cost (such as the number of text character accesses) for any given pattern in a random text model. Text models range from simple uniform models to higher-order Markov models or hidden Markov models (HMMs). Furthermore, we provide an algorithm to compute the exact distribution of differences in running time cost of two pattern matching algorithms. Methodologically, we use extensions of finite automata which we call deterministic arithmetic automata (DAAs) and probabilistic arithmetic automata (PAAs) [1]. Given an algorithm, a pattern, and a text model, a PAA is constructed from which the sought distributions can be derived using dynamic programming. To our knowledge, this is the first time that substring- or suffix-based pattern matching algorithms are analyzed exactly by computing the whole distribution of running time cost. Experimentally, we compare Horspool’s algorithm, Backward DAWG Matching, and Backward Oracle Matching on prototypical patterns of short length and provide statistics on the size of minimal DAAs for these computations.
Welfare of Aged Horses
Authors: McGowan Catherine
Published: October 2011

Horses form a unique and special part of their owners’ lives and aged horses are no exception. This review considers the health and management of aged horses, including the role of the owner and their perceptions of aged horses, potential threats or risks to their welfare and finally, factors affecting quality of life and euthanasia of aged horses. Owners of aged horses are concerned about the health, welfare and quality of life of their aged animals. Yet surveys of management and preventive healthcare reflect that there may be some limitations to what owners are actually achieving in practice. They show declining management as horses age, particularly for the retired horse and insufficient appropriate preventive healthcare via veterinary surgeons. The veterinary surgeon plays an essential and influential role in preventive healthcare, management of diseases and disorders and ultimately in the decision making process for euthanasia of aged horses at the end of their lives. The value of aged horses should not be underestimated by veterinarians and others working with them and the continuing care of aged horses should be regarded with the same importance as the care of younger horses with more obvious monetary value.
Discriminating Different Cancer Cells Using a Zebrafish in Vivo Assay
Authors: Moshal Karni S. , Ferri-Lagneau Karine F. , Haider Jamil , Pardhanani Pooja , Leung TinChung
Published: October 2011

Despite the expanded understanding of tumor angiogenesis phenomenon and how it impacts cancer treatment outcomes, we have yet to develop a robust assay that can quickly, easily, and quantitatively measure tumor-induced angiogenesis. Since the zebrafish/tumor xenograft represents an emerging tool in this regard, the present study strives to capitalize on the ease, effectiveness, and the adaptability of this model to quantify tumor angiogenesis. In order to test a range of responses, we chose two different tumorigenic cell lines, the human non-small cell lung carcinoma (H1299) and the mouse lung adenocarcinoma (CL13). Non-tumorigenic 3T3-L1 cells served as negative control. The cells were grafted near to the perivitelline space of the zebrafish embryos and the angiogenic response was analyzed using whole-mount alkaline phosphatase (AP) vessel staining and fluorescence microscopy. Angiogenic activity was scored based on the length and number of the newly formed ectopic vessels and the percentage of embryos with ectopic vessels. At 2 day-post-implantation, we detected a significant increase in the length and number of ectopic vessels with H1299 cell implantation compared to CL13 cell transplantation, both are higher than 3T3-L1 control. We also observed a significantly higher percentage of embryos with ectopic vessels with H1299 and CL13 transplantation compared to the 3T3-L1 control, but this parameter is not as robust and reliable as measuring the length and number of ectopic vessels. Furthermore, the systemic exposure of zebrafish embryos to an anti-angiogenesis drug (PTK 787, inhibitor of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase) inhibited tumor-induced angiogenesis, suggesting that the assay can be used to evaluate anti-angiogenic drugs. This study implicates the feasibility of using zebrafish xenotransplantation to perform quantitative measurement of the angiogenic activity of cancer cells which can be further extended to measure cancer cell metastasis. This assay represents not only the useful test for patient diagnosis, but also has the potential for evaluating anti-cancer drugs treatment.
Battery Management Systems in Electric and Hybrid Vehicles
Authors: Xing Yinjiao , Ma Eden W. M. , Tsui Kwok L. , Pecht Michael
Published: October 2011

The battery management system (BMS) is a critical component of electric and hybrid electric vehicles. The purpose of the BMS is to guarantee safe and reliable battery operation. To maintain the safety and reliability of the battery, state monitoring and evaluation, charge control, and cell balancing are functionalities that have been implemented in BMS. As an electrochemical product, a battery acts differently under different operational and environmental conditions. The uncertainty of a battery’s performance poses a challenge to the implementation of these functions. This paper addresses concerns for current BMSs. State evaluation of a battery, including state of charge, state of health, and state of life, is a critical task for a BMS. Through reviewing the latest methodologies for the state evaluation of batteries, the future challenges for BMSs are presented and possible solutions are proposed as well.
Ecological and Temporal Constraints in the Evolution of Bacterial Genomes
Authors: Boto Luis , Martínez Jose Luis
Published: October 2011

Studies on the experimental evolution of microorganisms, on their in vivo evolution (mainly in the case of bacteria producing chronic infections), as well as the availability of multiple full genomic sequences, are placing bacteria in the playground of evolutionary studies. In the present article we review the differential contribution to the evolution of bacterial genomes that processes such as gene modification, gene acquisition and gene loss may have when bacteria colonize different habitats that present characteristic ecological features. In particular, we review how the different processes contribute to evolution in microbial communities, in free-living bacteria or in bacteria living in isolation. In addition, we discuss the temporal constraints in the evolution of bacterial genomes, considering bacterial evolution from the perspective of processes of short-sighted evolution and punctual acquisition of evolutionary novelties followed by long stasis periods.
The “Autothixotropic” Phenomenon of Water and its Role in Proton Transfer
Authors: Verdel Nada , Jerman Igor , Bukovec Peter
Published: October 2011

In an experimental study, significantly higher conductivity values than those of freshly prepared chemically analogous solutions were found in aged (~one year old) aqueous solutions, except for those stored frozen. The results surprisingly resemble a previously noticed phenomenon in liquid water, which develops when water is stored in closed vessels. This was observed as a disturbing phenomenon in gravimetric measurements and in luminescence spectroscopy measurements. The phenomenon was termed “autothixotropy of water” due to the weak gel-like behavior which develops spontaneously over time, in which ions seem to play an important role. Here, according to experimental results we propose that contact with hydrophilic surfaces also plays an important role. The role of the “autothixotropy of water” in proton transfer is also discussed.
Termite Resistant Properties of Sisal Fiberboards
Authors: Syamani Firda Aulya , Subiyanto Bambang , Massijaya Muhamad Yusram
Published: October 2011

A study was carried out to test sisal (Agave sisalana Perrine) fiberboards properties as building materials against Asian subterranean termite, Coptotermes gestroi (Wasmann). Evaluation was in the laboratory according to the JWPA Standard-TW-S.1-1992. To improve mechanical properties of fiberboards made from sisal fibers, the boards were overlaid by rubber veneer, betung bamboo matting or formica. Result showed that the formica-overlaid sisal fiberboards performed better than other overlaid fiberboards against C. gestroi.
An Acute Case of Intoxication with Cyanobacteria and Cyanotoxins in Recreational Water in Salto Grande Dam, Argentina
Authors: Giannuzzi Leda , Sedan Daniela , Echenique Ricardo , Andrinolo Dario
Published: October 2011

Cyanobacterial blooms and hepatotoxic microcystins (MCs) usually occur in summer, constituting a sanitary and environmental problem in Salto Grande Dam, Argentina. Water sports and recreational activities take place in summer in this lake. We reported an acute case of cyanobacterial poisoning in Salto Grande dam, Argentina, which occurred in January 2007. Accidentally, a young man was immersed in an intense bloom of Microcystis spp. A level of 48.6 µg·L−1 of microcystin-LR was detected in water samples. Four hours after exposure, the patient showed nausea, abdominal pain and fever. Three days later, dyspnea and respiratory distress were reported. The patient was hospitalized in intensive care and diagnosed with an atypical pneumonia. Finally, a week after the exposure, the patient developed a hepatotoxicosis with a significant increase of hepatic damage biomarkers (ALT, AST and γGT). Complete recovery took place within 20 days. This is the first study to show an acute intoxication with microcystin-producing cyanobacteria blooms in recreational water.
Measuring Time-of-Flight in an Ultrasonic LPS System Using Generalized Cross-Correlation
Authors: Villladangos José Manuel , Ureña Jesús , García Juan Jesús , Mazo Manuel , Hernández Álvaro , Jiménez Ana , Ruíz Daniel , Marziani Carlos De
Published: October 2011

In this article, a time-of-flight detection technique in the frequency domain is described for an ultrasonic Local Positioning System (LPS) based on encoded beacons. Beacon transmissions have been synchronized and become simultaneous by means of the DS-CDMA (Direct-Sequence Code Division Multiple Access) technique. Every beacon has been associated to a 255-bit Kasami code. The detection of signal arrival instant at the receiver, from which the distance to each beacon can be obtained, is based on the application of the Generalized Cross-Correlation (GCC), by using the cross-spectral density between the received signal and the sequence to be detected. Prior filtering to enhance the frequency components around the carrier frequency (40 kHz) has improved estimations when obtaining the correlation function maximum, which implies an improvement in distance measurement precision. Positioning has been achieved by using hyperbolic trilateration, based on the Time Differences of Arrival (TDOA) between a reference beacon and the others.
SOMM: A New Service Oriented Middleware for Generic Wireless Multimedia Sensor Networks Based on Code Mobility
Authors: Faghih Mohammad Mehdi , Moghaddam Mohsen Ebrahimi
Published: October 2011

Although much research in the area of Wireless Multimedia Sensor Networks (WMSNs) has been done in recent years, the programming of sensor nodes is still time-consuming and tedious. It requires expertise in low-level programming, mainly because of the use of resource constrained hardware and also the low level API provided by current operating systems. The code of the resulting systems has typically no clear separation between application and system logic. This minimizes the possibility of reusing code and often leads to the necessity of major changes when the underlying platform is changed. In this paper, we present a service oriented middleware named SOMM to support application development for WMSNs. The main goal of SOMM is to enable the development of modifiable and scalable WMSN applications. A network which uses the SOMM is capable of providing multiple services to multiple clients at the same time with the specified Quality of Service (QoS). SOMM uses a virtual machine with the ability to support mobile agents. Services in SOMM are provided by mobile agents and SOMM also provides a t space on each node which agents can use to communicate with each other.
LPS Auto-Calibration Algorithm with Predetermination of Optimal Zones
Authors: Ruiz Francisco Daniel , Ureña Jesús , García Juan C. , Jiménez Ana , Hernández Álvaro , García Juan J.
Published: October 2011

Accurate coordinates for active beacons placed in the environment are required in Local Positioning Systems (LPS). These coordinates and the distances (or differences of distances) measured between the beacons and the mobile node to be localized are inputs to most trilateration algorithms. As a first approximation, such coordinates are obtained by means of manual measurements (a time-consuming and non-flexible method), or by using a calibration algorithm (i.e., automatic determination of beacon coordinates from ad hoc measurements). This paper presents a method to calibrate the beacons’ positions in a LPS using a mobile receiver. The method has been developed for both, spherical and hyperbolic trilateration. The location of only three test points must be known a priori, while the position of the other test points can be unknown. Furthermore, the paper describes a procedure to estimate the optimal positions, or approximate areas in the coverage zone, where the test-points necessary to calibrate the ultrasonic LPS should be placed. Simulation and experimental results show the improvement achieved when these optimal test-points are used instead of randomly selected ones.
Residents' Support of Mega-Events: A Reexamination
Authors: Boo Soyoung , Wang Qijing , Yu Larry
Published: October 2011

Residents' perception is a commonly employed measure of locals' support for mega-events. This present study suggests that more work is needed to explore residents' perceptions of mega-events, and it extends the model related to locals' support for mega-events, based on social exchange
theory discussed in previous studies. This study proposes, and empirically validates, a theoretically structured approach to measure residents' support, as well as its antecedents and its consequences, for the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games held in China. The results revealed that perceived preparedness
is a significantly influential variable, but that perceived benefit is stronger in its effect. Our testing gives insight into a dynamic research approach to measure residents' support for megaevents.
Event Attendance Motivation and Place Attachment: an Exploratory Study of Young Residents in Adelaide, South Australia
Authors: Hixson Eliza J. , Vivienne S. , McCabe S. , Brown Graham
Published: October 2011

This study aims to explore the effect of attending events on young residents' place attachment levels. Events generate a wide range of social outcomes but it is not known whether they influence feelings towards the place where the event is held. After examining the motivations of event
attendees, a survey of young residents in Adelaide, Australia found that there was no correlation between the events attended and place attachment. However, it was found that the motivations for event attendance did correlate with place identity. The other variable that was found to effect
place identity was length of residence. The results indicate that these variables have a bearing on the effective bonds that develop between a person and a place, which in this case is the place of residence.
Relationship Between Corporate Image and Purchase Behavior: Moderating Effects of Personal Characteristics and Situational Factors
Authors: Kim Jun Woo , Crow Brian , Kim Yu Kyoum
Published: October 2011

While previous research in the sponsorship context demonstrates a positive and direct relationship between corporate image and purchase intention, little empirical research considers moderator variables that fall within the realm of the corporate image and purchase behavior. Against
this condition, the moderating impact of selected personal characteristics and situational factors on the corporate image-purchase behavior link was analyzed. As a result of the moderating tests, age, income, and awareness (i.e., consumers' ability to recall and recognize the event sponsors)
are found to be important moderators of the corporate image–purchase behavior link. From a managerial perspective, showing the moderating role of demographics and awareness of sponsorship activities, this study offers sponsorship and event managers an effective way to deal with sponsorship
selection decision.
Event Attributes and the Structure of Satisfaction: A Case Study of Golf Spectators
Authors: Krohn Brian D. , Backman Sheila J.
Published: October 2011

A tourist or event attendee's satisfaction can be affected by the performance of a single attribute, especially if the experience is negative. In order to structure attributes in a way that is most beneficial to event or destination hosts, it is necessary to focus on those attributes
that can be controlled and/or adjusted by the hosts. The purpose of this study was to examine multiple categorizations of attributes to determine which structure most closely represents the psychological representations present in the attendee's minds and which of these categories has the
most influence on overall event satisfaction. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to determine that the categorization of attributes by activity type was a best fit to the data. Activity type attribute categories of tournament specific, food/beverage, destination hospitality, transportation,
and staff/information were revealed. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to determine that tournament-specific attributes had the most influence on event satisfaction, followed by hospitality and staff/information attributes (standardized loadings of 0.371, 0.298, and 0.094, respectively).
Results indicate that event-specific and hospitality attributes provide the most influence on satisfaction, but are not always in direct control of the event coordinator. Events should closely monitor attributes that are external to the event to ensure the highest level of spectator satisfaction.
Self-Reported Hearing Problems among Older Adults: Prevalence and Comparison to Measured Hearing Impairment
Authors: Hannula Samuli , Bloigu Risto , Majamaa Kari , Sorri Martti , Mäki-Torkko Elina
Published: October 2011

Background:There are not many population-based epidemiological studies on the association between self-reported hearing problems and measured hearing thresholds in older adults. Previous studies have shown that the relationship between self-reported hearing difficulties and measured
hearing thresholds is unclear and, according to our knowledge, there are no previous population-based studies reporting hearing thresholds among subjects with hyperacusis.Purpose:The aim was to investigate the prevalence of self-reported hearing problems, that is, hearing difficulties,
difficulties in following a conversation in noise, tinnitus, and hyperacusis, and to compare the results with measured hearing thresholds in older adults.Research Design:Cross-sectional, population-based, and unscreened.Study Sample:Random sample of subjects (n = 850)
aged 54-66 yr living in the city of Oulu (Finland) and the surrounding areas.Data Collection and Analysis:Otological examination, pure tone audiometry, questionnaire surveyResults:The prevalence of self-reported hearing problems was 37.1% for hearing difficulties, 43.3% for difficulties
in following a conversation in noise, 29.2% for tinnitus, and 17.2% for hyperacusis. More than half of the subjects had no hearing impairment, or HI (BEHL[better ear hearing level]0.5‐4 kHz < 20 dB HL) even though they reported hearing problems. Subjects with self-reported
hearing problems, including tinnitus and hyperacusis, had significantly poorer hearing thresholds than those who did not report hearing problems. Self-reported hearing difficulties predicted hearing impairment in the pure-tone average at 4, 6, and 8 kHz, and at the single frequency of 4 kHz.Conclusions:The
results indicate that self-reported hearing difficulties are more frequent than hearing impairment defined by audiometric measurement. Furthermore, self-reported hearing difficulties seem to predict hearing impairment at high frequencies (4‐8 kHz) rather than at the frequencies of 0.5‐4
kHz, which are commonly used to define the degree of hearing impairment in medical and legal issues.
Intravenous Silibinin as ‘Rescue Treatment’ for On-Treatment Non-Responders to Pegylated Interferon/Ribavirin Combination Therapy
Authors: Rutter Karoline , Scherzer Thomas-Matthias , Beinhardt Sandra , Kerschner Heidrun , Stättermayer Albert F , Hofer Harald , Popow-Kraupp Theresia , Steindl-Munda Petra , Ferenci Peter
Published: October 2011

Background

Intravenous silibinin (ivSIL) is a potent antiviral agent against HCV. In vitro silibinin (SIL) inhibits viral replication, possibly by inhibiting HCV RNA polymerase. In this proof-of-concept study, ivSIL was tested in on-treatment non-responders to full-dose of pegylated interferon-α2a/ribavirin (standard of care [SOC]).

Methods

A total of 27 treatment-naive patients with <2 log drop in viral load after 12 weeks or still detectable HCV RNA after 24 weeks of SOC treatment (mean age 54.4 ±6.8 years, male/female 19/8, HCV genotype 1 n=19, 3a n=4 and 4 n=4, liver fibrosis F4 n=14, F3 n=5 and F2 n=3, and interleukin 28B polymorphism C/C n=1, T/C n=22 and T/T n=4) received additionally 20 mg/kg/day SIL (Legalon-SIL®; Rottapharm-Madaus, Monza, Italy) intravenously for 14 or 21 days. Thereafter, pegylated interferon/ribavirin was continued. HCV RNA was quantified by TaqMan® (Roche Diagnostics, Pleasanton, CA, USA).

Results

At the end of ivSIL treatment, 23/27 (85.1%) patients had undetectable HCV RNA. In one of the four remaining patients HCV RNA became undetectable 8 weeks after ivSIL on SOC. Five patients relapsed after ivSIL, three of them responded to repeated administration of ivSIL, but relapsed again. The best predictor of response was a low pre-ivSIL HCV RNA level. A total of 19 patients reached one treatment end point (end of SOC treatment HCV RNA undetectable n=11 and non-response n=8); 8 patients were still on SOC (all HCV-RNA-negative). All 11 patients with end-of-treatment response completed 24 weeks of follow-up; 7 patients remained HCV-RNA-negative and 4 relapsed. Except for a slight increase in bilirubin (mean ±sd 0.98 ±0.35 to 2.12 ±0.99 mg/dl), treatment was well-tolerated.

Conclusions

ivSIL is an effective ‘rescue treatment’ for on-treatment non-responders to full-dose of SOC.
Heurs et malheurs de la gestion communautaire du barrage de Daringa dans la commune de Djougou au Bénin
Authors: Gangneron Fabrice
Published: October 2011

Cet article propose d’analyser la gestion d’un barrage agropastoral récemment aménagé au centre-nord du Bénin. Il montre l’échec du volet pastoral, révélateur du clivage entre les sédentaires disposant des droits fonciers et les groupes d’éleveurs peuls n’ayant que des droits secondaires au sol et à ses ressources. Malgré des dispositifs formels de gestion communautaires et inclusifs, ils ne parviennent pas à se constituer en groupes stratégiques pour faire valoir leurs intérêts.
Réformes des services d'eau en milieu rural africain : enjeux et limites du montage institutionnel de gestion. Une étude de cas au Sénégal
Authors: Diop Moussa , Hamath Dia Amadou
Published: October 2011

La délégation de gestion du service d’eau en milieu rural se caractérise par une relation contractuelle entre une autorité délégante et un gestionnaire délégué pour la délivrance du service. Au moment où l’État met en place un plan d’action pour généraliser ce modèle, cet article montre que tout le montage fonctionne, en définitive, sur une difficulté à intégrer une grammaire réaliste des relations institutionnelles : espérer que le système socio-technique, organisé autour de la soutenabilité financière, soit viable sans prendre en compte la faiblesse des institutions dans le contexte sénégalais.
Les projets d'approvisionnement communautaire en eau : une arène d'expression des mécontentements politiques. Le cas de Kumbo, au Cameroun
Authors: Ngefor Gillian Sanguv
Published: October 2011

Le rôle de la chefferie dans le Cameroun post colonial est ambigu dans ses rapports avec le pouvoir politique et la communauté dont elle est la représentante. Dans un contexte de conflit de rôle permanent, les communautés locales utilisent les projets d’approvisionnement en eau comme une arène pour exprimer leur mécontentement vis-à-vis des politiques. Cet article montre comment l'organisation communautaire au Cameroun du Nord-Ouest a influencé les relations entre les communautés locales et le pouvoir politique dans la gestion de l'approvisionnement en eau.
Des mini-réseaux d'eau potable : entre enjeux politiques et arrangements locaux. Le cas de la commune de Djougou au Bénin
Authors: Bonnassieux Alain , Gangneron Fabrice
Published: October 2011

Cet article porte sur les changements de gestion des adductions d’eau villageoises au Bénin dans le contexte de décentralisation politique. Les enjeux, les arrangements et les tensions qu’entraîne le passage de modes de gestion communautaire à une gestion déléguée à des opérateurs privés sont discutés à travers l’étude détaillée de la trajectoire d’une adduction d’eau villageoise dans la commune de Djougou au Centre-Nord du Bénin et l’évocation des orientations politiques récentes du pays.
L'économie politique de la réforme des filières cotonnières d'Afrique de l'Ouest et du centre : vers la convergence des modes d'organisation ?
Authors: Nubukpo Kako
Published: October 2011

Les filières cotonnières d’Afrique de l’Ouest et du centre sont le lieu d’importantes mutations qui s’articulent pour l’essentiel, autour d’une ligne directrice : la connexion des producteurs de coton au marché mondial est leur seule voie de pérennisation. Cet article tente de montrer que l’analyse du processus de réformes accrédite le constat d’une harmonisation croissante des points de vue des partenaires au développement. Cependant, derrière ce consensus libéral qui semble s’instaurer, subsistent de profondes différences de perception entre les acteurs, sur fond de divergences sur la conception de la valeur à l’origine des réformes des filières.
Réformes financières et rentabilité du système bancaire des États de la CEMAC
Authors: Nembot Ndeffo Luc , Ningaye Paul
Published: October 2011

Cette étude analyse à l'aide du modèle Structure Comportement Performance, l’impact des réformes financières sur la rentabilité du système bancaire des pays de la CEMAC. Les résultats montrent que l’indice du risque et la part des actions détenues par le secteur privé sont significatifs dans la détermination de la profitabilité des banques. Les recommandations portent sur l’amélioration de la qualité du portefeuille et la poursuite de la privatisation du secteur bancaire.
Récents développements de la littérature sur la finance et la croissance économique
Authors: Eggoh Jude C.
Published: October 2011

Cet article présente une synthèse des récentes contributions sur l’analyse de la relation entre le développement financier et la croissance économique. Les modèles théoriques montrent que le développement financier favorise la croissance à travers la diversification du risque, l’amélioration de l’intermédiation et la réduction de l’asymétrie d’information. Les estimations empiriques valident globalement les résultats obtenus à partir des modèles théoriques et suggèrent que la croissance économique est positivement associée au développement financier.
L'ennui comme expérience du temps
Authors: David Pascal
Published: October 2011

Résumé L’ennui n’est pas seulement un fardeau dont il faudrait à tout prix se délivrer, ni une expérience sinistre à laquelle il faudrait tenter d’échapper – et vers quoi donc ? Ce peut être une chance, à condition d’écouter ce qu’il a à nous dire : de nous-mêmes, de notre condition, de notre étoffe temporelle. Lié au « loisir intérieur », qui est le sens même de l’école, l’ennui demande à être fécondé.