bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of iron redox transformations on plutonium sorption to sediments
Authors: Hixon Amy E. , Hu Yung-Jin , Kaplan Daniel , Kukkadapu Ravi K. , Nitsche Heino , Qafoku O. , Powell Brian A.
Published: November 2010

Plutonium subsurface mobility is primarily controlled by its oxidation state, which in turn is loosely coupled to the oxidation state of iron in the system. Experiments were conducted to examine the effect of sediment iron mineral composition and oxidation state on plutonium sorption and reduction. A pH 6.3 vadose zone sediment containing iron oxides and iron-containing phyllosilicates was treated with various complexants (ammonium oxalate) and reductants (hydroxylamine hydrochloride and dithionite-citrate-bicarbonate (DCB)) to selectively leach and/or reduce iron oxide and phyllosilicate/clay Fe(III).57Fe-Mössbauer spectroscopy was used to identify initial iron mineral composition of the sediment and monitor dissolution and reduction of iron oxides and reduction of phyllosilicate Fe(III).57Fe-Mössbauer spectroscopy showed that the Fe-mineral composition of the untreated sediment is: 25–30% hematite, 60–65% small-particle/Al-goethite, and <10% Fe(III) in phyllosilicate; there was no detectable Fe(II). Upon reduction with a strong chemical reductant (dithionite-citrate-bicarbonate buffer), much of the hematite and goethite was removed. Partial reduction of phyllosilicate Fe(III) was evident in the sediments subjected to DCB treatment. Sorption of Pu(V) was monitored over one week for the untreated and each of five treated sediment fractions. Plutonium oxidation state speciation in the aqueous and solid phases was monitored using solvent extraction, coprecipitation, and XANES. The rate of sorption appears to correlate with the fraction of Fe(II) in the sediment (untreated or treated). Pu(V) was the only oxidation state measured in the aqueous phase, irrespective of treatment, whereas Pu(IV) and much smaller amounts of Pu(V) and Pu(VI) were measured in the solid phase. Surface-mediated reduction of Pu(V) to Pu(IV) occurred in treated and untreated sediment samples; Pu(V) remained on untreated sediment surface for two days before reducing to Pu(IV). Similar to the sorption kinetics, the reduction rate appears to be correlated with sediment Fe(II) concentration. The correlation between Fe(II) concentrations and Pu(V) reduction demonstrates the potential impact of changing iron mineralogy on plutonium subsurface transport through redox transition areas. These findings should influence the conceptual models of long-term stewardship of Pu contaminated sites that have fluctuating redox conditions, such as vadose zones or riparian zones.
Redefining Outcome of First Seizures by Acute Illness
Authors: Martin Emily T. , Kerin Tara , Christakis Dimitri A. , Blume Heidi K. , Gospe Sidney M. , Vinje Jan , Bowen Michael D. , Gentsch Jon , Zerr Danielle M.
Published: November 2010

BACKGROUND:

Seizures are common in children, but the causes and recurrence risk for children with a nonfebrile first seizure remain poorly understood.

OBJECTIVE:

In a prospective longitudinal study of children who presented with a first-time seizure, we investigated the viral etiology of associated infectious illnesses and sought to determine the risk of recurrent seizures stratified by fever and type of illness.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Children (aged 6 months to 6 years) were enrolled at the time of evaluation for their first seizure and followed monthly for up to 5 years. Seizure and illness data were collected through parent interviews and medical-record reviews. Stool, serum, and cerebrospinal fluid collected within 48 hours of the first seizure were evaluated for viral gastrointestinal pathogens.

RESULTS:

Of the 117 children enrolled, 78 (67%) had febrile seizures, 34 (29%) had nonfebrile-illness seizures, and 5 (4%) had unprovoked seizures. Children with nonfebrile-illness seizures were more likely than those with febrile seizures to have acute gastroenteritis (47% and 28%, respectively; P = .05). No significant differences in seizure recurrence were found between children with or without a fever at first seizure. Children with acute gastroenteritis at first seizure, regardless of fever, had a lower risk of seizure recurrence compared with children with other acute illnesses (hazard ratio: 0.28; 95% confidence interval: 0.09–0.80).

CONCLUSIONS:

Our results confirm the role of gastrointestinal illness as a distinguishing feature in childhood seizures. Children with this distinct presentation have a low rate of seizure recurrence and few neurologic complications.
Survival and Morbidity Outcomes for Very Low Birth Weight Infants With Down Syndrome
Authors: Boghossian Nansi S. , Hansen Nellie I. , Bell Edward F. , Stoll Barbara J. , Murray Jeffrey C. , Laptook Abbot R. , Shankaran Seetha , Walsh Michele C. , Das Abhik , Higgins Rosemary D. ,   for the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Neonatal Research Network
Published: November 2010

OBJECTIVE:

Our objective was to compare survival and neonatal morbidity rates between very low birth weight (VLBW) infants with Down syndrome (DS) and VLBW infants with non–DS chromosomal anomalies, nonchromosomal birth defects (BDs), and no chromosomal anomaly or major BD.

METHODS:

Data were collected prospectively for infants weighing 401 to 1500 g who were born and/or cared for at one of the study centers participating in the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Neonatal Research Network in 1994–2008. Risk of death and morbidities, including patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), late-onset sepsis (LOS), retinopathy of prematurity, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), were compared between VLBW infants with DS and infants in the other groups.

RESULTS:

Infants with DS were at increased risk of death (adjusted relative risk: 2.47 [95% confidence interval: 2.00–3.07]), PDA, NEC, LOS, and BPD, relative to infants with no BDs. Decreased risk of death (relative risk: 0.40 [95% confidence interval: 0.31–0.52]) and increased risks of NEC and LOS were observed when infants with DS were compared with infants with other non–DS chromosomal anomalies. Relative to infants with nonchromosomal BDs, infants with DS were at increased risk of PDA and NEC.

CONCLUSION:

The increased risk of morbidities among VLBW infants with DS provides useful information for counseling parents and for anticipating the need for enhanced surveillance for prevention of these morbidities.
Adverse Events From Cough and Cold Medications After a Market Withdrawal of Products Labeled for Infants
Authors: Shehab Nadine , Schaefer Melissa K. , Kegler Scott R. , Budnitz Daniel S.
Published: November 2010

OBJECTIVE:

A voluntary market withdrawal of orally administered, over-the-counter, infant cough and cold medications (CCMs) was announced in October 2007. The goal of this study was to assess CCM-related adverse events (AEs) among children after the withdrawal.

METHODS:

Emergency department (ED) visits for CCM-related AEs among children <12 years of age were identified from a nationally representative, stratified, probability sample of 63 US EDs, for the 14 months before and after announcement of withdrawal.

RESULTS:

After withdrawal, the number and proportion of estimated ED visits for CCM-related AEs involving children <2 years of age were less than one-half of those in the prewithdrawal period (1248 visits [13.3%] vs 2790 visits [28.7%]; difference: −15.4% [95% confidence interval [CI]: −25.9% to −5.0%]), whereas the overall number of estimated ED visits for CCM-related AEs for children <12 years of age remained unchanged (9408 visits [95% CI: 6874–11 941 visits] vs 9727 visits [95% CI: 6649–12 805 visits]). During both periods, two-thirds of estimated ED visits involved unsupervised ingestions (ie, children finding and ingesting medications).

CONCLUSIONS:

ED visits for CCM-related AEs among children <2 years of age were substantially reduced after withdrawal of over-the-counter infant CCMs. Further reductions likely will require packaging improvements to reduce harm from unsupervised ingestions and continued education about avoiding CCM use for young children. Monitoring of CCM-related harm should continue because recommendations were updated in October 2008 to avoid the use of CCMs for children <4 years of age.
Queering the Subject
Authors: Armour Ellen
Published: November 2010

Based on the author's experience, this essay considers how to "mainstream" queer issues into so-called "Great Books" courses. The author also suggests some concrete pedagogical strategies to use in courses that deal with sensitive subjects like sexuality.
Writing Rites
Authors: Roden Frederick
Published: November 2010

This experiential essay interrogates the role of the literature classroom for teaching the diversity of religious experience. The secular humanities academy, and the secular humanities classroom, prove to be "queer" spaces for exploring religion: and strategic in demonstrating the breadth of its study.
Conversação entre abordagens da estratégia em organizações: escolha estratégica, cognição e instituição
Authors: Fonseca Valéria S. da , Machado-da-Silva Clóvis L.
Published: November 2010

No presente trabalho pretendeu-se verificar qual o tratamento dispensado ao conceito de estratégia organizacional nas abordagens da escolha estratégica, cognitiva e institucional. Para tanto, delimitaram-se critérios de análise teóricos e metodológicos. A identificação desses critérios foi realizada de modo descritivo, a partir do exame dos pressupostos de cada abordagem focalizada. As descrições dos seus respectivos indicadores foram agrupadas em matrizes de conteúdo e analisadas por meio do uso do método comparativo. Os indicadores dos critérios teóricos foram as representações do indivíduo, da organização e do ambiente. O indicador do critério metodológico foi a dimensão de análise. Os resultados obtidos revelam variações significativas que configuram arranjos específicos de definição e tratamento dos elementos constitutivos da concepção de estratégia organizacional, em cada uma das abordagens analisadas.
Chlorhexidine Controlled‐Release Profile After EDTA Root Surface Etching: An In Vivo Study
Authors: Gamal Ahmed Y. , Kumper Radi M. , Sadek Hesham S. , El Destawy Mahmoud T.
Published: November 2010

Background: The main objective of the present study was to quantify chlorhexidine (CHX) release after the use of CHX‐EDTA root surface treatment as a local‐delivery antimicrobial vehicle.

Methods: Twenty non‐smoking patients clinically diagnosed as having moderate‐to‐severe chronic periodontitis were selected to participate in this study. After cause‐related therapy, one site in every patient received defect overfill with CHX gel 2% (20 sites). In addition, twenty contralateral sites received defect fill of CHX gel after 3 minutes of 24% EDTA gel root surface etching (20 sites). Gingival crevicular fluid samples were collected at 1, 3, 7, and 14 days post‐therapy.

Results: The CHX‐EDTA group showed statistically significantly higher levels of CHX than those of the control group at 1, 3, and 7 days. At 14 days, the CHX‐EDTA group showed 0.8 mg/mL values.

Conclusion: The use of CHX‐EDTA root surface treatment as a local‐delivery antimicrobial improves CHX substantivity.
Sinus Floor Elevation Via the Maxillary Premolar Extraction Socket With Immediate Implant Placement: A Case Series
Authors: Kolhatkar Shilpa , Bhola Monish , Thompson‐Sloan Tamika N.
Published: November 2010

Background: When immediate implant placement is considered for teeth with close proximity to the sinus floor, apical extension of the osteotomy is significantly limited, and often a staged approach is used. Implant placement into fresh extraction sockets and sinus floor manipulation using bone‐added osteotome sinus floor elevation with implant placement are techniques most often used independently or sequentially. Very few reports have described the combined use of immediate implant placement in fresh sockets and the bone‐added osteotome sinus floor elevation technique.

Methods: We present five cases in which a maxillary premolar was extracted and an implant placed into the extraction site with simultaneous abfracture of the sinus floor using osteotomes. All teeth were extracted atraumatically, and sockets carefully debrided and checked for integrity of the walls. After ideal osteotomy preparation, particulate bone graft was placed in the osteotomy and appropriately sized osteotomes were used for sinus floor elevation. After sufficient elevation, implant placement was completed and particulate bone was packed in the bone–implant gap when indicated.

Results: All implants were restored after a minimum healing period of 6 months. At the time of final restoration, bone was seen surrounding the implants from the apical portion to the most coronal thread. All five implants healed without complications and were in function for periods ranging from 6 to 12 months.

Conclusions: Immediate implant placement with simultaneous osteotome sinus floor elevation is an advantageous combination of two successfully used techniques. This combined approach can significantly reduce the treatment time for implant therapy in teeth with close sinus proximity and provide the operator with the ability to place implants of desired length.
Application of acidic thermal treatment for one- and two-stage anaerobic digestion of sewage sludge
Authors: Takashima M. , Tanaka Y.
Published: November 2010

The effectiveness of acidic thermal treatment (ATT) was examined in a 106-day continuous experiment, when applied to one- or two-stage anaerobic digestion of sewage sludge (4.3% TS). The ATT was performed at 170°C and pH 5 for 1 hour (sulfuric acid for lowering pH). The one-stage process was mesophilic at 20 days hydraulic retention time (HRT), and incorporated the ATT as pre-treatment. The two-stage process consisted of a thermophilic digester at 5 days HRT and a mesophilic digester at 15 days HRT, and incorporated the ATT as interstage-treatment. On average, VSS reduction was 48.7% for the one-stage control, 65.8% for the one-stage ATT, 52.7% for the two-stage control and 67.6% for the two-stage ATT. Therefore, VSS reduction was increased by 15–17%, when the ATT was combined in both one- and two-stage processes. In addition, the dewaterability of digested sludge was remarkably improved, and phosphate release was enhanced. On the other hand, total methane production did not differ significantly, and color generation was noted in the digested sludge solutions with the ATT. In conclusion, the anaerobic digestion with ATT can be an attractive alternative for sludge reduction, handling, and phosphorus recovery.
Evaluation of stormwater BMPs for implementing industrial stormwater permitting strategy
Authors: Park M.-H. , Ridgeway I. K. , Swamikannu X. , Stenstrom M. K.
Published: November 2010

This study assesses the performance of stormwater best management practices (BMPs) in industrial sectors and their effluent quality to facilitate the development of technology-based numerical effluent criteria. Generally, retention ponds outperform other BMP types for reducing total suspended solids, and media filter and wetland basins outperform other BMPs for metal removal. Detention basins were not effective in reducing stormwater pollution although they can retain the stormwater before entering surface waters. However, many BMPs show high variability of influent and effluent concentrations and no significant difference between them, which makes it difficult to determine the effectiveness of the BMP. In some cases, low influent concentrations govern the distribution of effluent concentrations and effluent concentrations are often greater than inflow concentrations. The analysis results can be used to assist in the developing a watershed based multisector industrial stormwater general permit to ensure compliance with total maximum daily loads. The results also suggest the need for additional monitoring data.
Analysis and occurrence of typical endocrine-disrupting chemicals in three sewage treatment plants
Authors: Wang L. Y. , Zhang X. H. , Tam N. F. Y.
Published: November 2010

Seven typical endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), including bisphenol A (BPA), 4-tert-octylphenol (OP), estrone (E1), estradiol (E2), 17α-estradiol (17α-E2), estriol (E3) and 17α-ethinylestradiol (EE2) in wastewater, were simultaneously determined with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Samples, including influents, effluents and wastewater of different unit processes, were taken seasonally from three different sewage treatment plants. The result showed that BPA and EE2 were the two main types of EDCs in all the samples. The average concentration of BPA were in the range of 268.1–2,588.5 ng l−1 in influents and 34.0–3,099.6 ng l−1 in effluents, while EE2 ranging from 133.1 to 403.2 ng l−1 and from 35.3 to 269.1 ng l−1, respectively. Seasonal change of EDCs levels in effluents was obvious between wet season and dry season. Besides, BPA and E3 could be effectively removed by the biological treatment processes (oxidation ditch and A2/O) with the unit removal of 64–91% and 63–100% for each compound, while other five EDCs had moderate or low removal rates. The study also proved that physical treatment processes, including screening, primary sedimentation and pure aeration, had no or little effect on EDCs removal.
Nitrogen removal from livestock and poultry breeding wastewaters using a novel sequencing batch biofilm reactor
Authors: Xiao Hong , Yang Ping , Peng Hong , Zhang Yanzong , Deng Shihuai , Zhang Xiaohong
Published: November 2010

A study was conducted regarding the biological nitrogen removal from the livestock and poultry breeding wastewater (LPBWs) using a novel sequencing batch biofilm reactor (SBBR). Nitrogen removal process was studied under three aeration strategies/modes, referred to as MODE 1, 2, and 3. The results showed that MODE 2 (one operation period: instant fill of LPBWs, 3.0 h aeration, 1.5 h non-aeration, 1.5 h aeration, 1.0 h non-aeration and rapid drain of treated LPBWs) performed the best in nitrogen removal. Under MODE 2, the removal efficiencies were as high as 96.1 and 92.1% for NH3-N and TN, respectively. Simultaneous nitrification and denitrification (SND), as well as shortcut nitrification and denitrification are likely to be the two main mechanisms for the nitrogen removal in this study. Nitrifying bateria were not inhibited by heterotrophic bacteria with C/N ratios ranging from 18.1 to 21.4 and DO concentration of 2.0 mg/l. Alternation between aeration and non-aeration played an important role in NO2−-N accumulation.
Viability of Ascaris and other helminth genera non larval eggs in different conditions of temperature, lime (pH) and humidity
Authors: Maya C. , Ortiz M. , Jiménez B.
Published: November 2010

Helminth eggs are the pathogens most resistant to inactivation during sludge and wastewater treatment. For this reason, in several regulations and the WHO guidelines for wastewater and excreta reuse for agriculture and aquaculture they are considered as indicators of the performance of the treatment process. Conditions required to inactivate helminth eggs, notably Ascaris lumbricoides, are recommended in the literature, but in practice these have not always proven effective, not only for Ascaris but also other genera of helminth eggs. The objective of this research was to study the inactivation of a high total content of non larval Ascaris and other genera of helminth eggs of medical importance to developing countries under controlled conditions of (a) temperature (30°C to 80°C) and humidity (80, 90 and 95%) and (b) lime doses (15 and 20% of CaO w/w dry basis) and humidity (90 and 80%), using different contact times in both cases. The inactivation data obtained for different genera of non larval helminth eggs is presented. Results showed that there is a combination of conditions (temperature, pH and humidity) that is optimal for inactivation. To completely inactivate any genera of non larval helminth eggs: (a) a temperature above 70°C and 80% humidity for a duration of 120 min; and, (b) a 20% CaO dose (pH 12.5) and a humidity level of 80% for a duration of 8 months are needed. With regard to the resistance of different genera of helminth eggs, Ascaris, Toxocara and Taenia, in that order, were the most resistant, while the most sensitive were Trichuris and Hymenolepis. For most of the conditions tested Ascaris showed the highest resistance, probably due to the chemical arrangement of its membrane.
Aerobic granule formation in a sequencing batch reactor treating newsprint effluent under low phosphate conditions
Authors: Liu Jianrong , Nguyen David , Paice Michael
Published: November 2010

Pulp and paper mills are under increasing pressure to minimize the discharge of phosphate to receiving waters. We investigated the operation of two laboratory sequencing batch reactors (SBR) under low phosphate conditions over a period of eight months. Performance characteristics in terms of COD and TSS removal were similar to the full-scale mill activated sludge operation, but the floc density and structure was improved. Sludge yield as a result of phosphate limitation was routinely lower than 0.15 kg/kg of COD. Aerobic granule formation was established in one of the SBRs by reducing the settling time from 30 min to 2 min and by increasing stirring shear force. Once established, the brown granules which were 1–2 mm in diameter were stable over five months of operation. Extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) analysis of the granules indicated a higher galactose content and lower mannose content than in conventional flocs. The granules generated more quorum sensing compound (acyl homoserine lactone) than conventional flocs, suggesting that quorum sensing could play a role in granule formation. When compared to the conventional SBR, the aerobic granule SBR performed at a higher organic loading, at faster settling velocity, and without filamentous bulking.
Efficacy of Betel Cream on Skin Ailments
Authors: Arambewela Lakshmi Sriyani , Arawwawala Menuka L.D.A , Withanage Damayanthi , Kulathunga Shanthi
Published: November 2010

In Sri Lanka, freshly squeezed juice of Piper betle (Family: Piperaceae) leaves is used as a remedy for skin ailments. Therefore, a cream was formulated by incorporating essential oil and cold ethanolic extract of betel leaves into Vaseline and a clinical study was performed to evaluate the efficacy of the above cream. A double blind, vehiclecontrolled randomized study was performed for a period of 14 days. There was a significant healing effect on skin ailments when patients were treated with betel oil and cold ethanolic extract incorporated cream.
Yoga and Physical Activity: The Effect of Meditation
Authors: Zaslavsky Oleg
Published: November 2010

I read with a great interest the article by Buranruk and colleagues (2010) regarding measurements of cardio-respiratory parameters to assess the intensity of physical exercise in healthy adults practicing Thai Yoga. The authors conclude that a 30 minute long Thai Yoga session is commensurate to a very light to light intensity exercise. It is noteworthy that the measured physiological parameters (e.g., heart rate, VO2 max) are the function of the subtle interplay between relaxation techniques aimed at slowing down the metabolic rate by eliciting parasympathetic effect, and physical stimulation that, on the other hand, result in a strong sympathetic response. That is, it can be deduced that the levels of relaxation that one engaged in throughout the Yoga session mediates the effect of physical activity on the physiological parameters. Thus, taking into account the physiological parameters only while discarding the effect of meditation could result in miscalculation of the actual net value of the physical exercise.
Effect of oxygen potential and fluxing components on phase relations during sintering of iron ore
Authors: Kongoli F. , Mcbow I. , Budd R. , Llubani S. , Yazawa A.
Published: November 2010

The optimal operation of the blast furnace depends considerably on the
properties of the sinter fed into the furnace. As a result, the optimization
of the sintering processes has a direct effect on the overall effectiveness
of the iron making processes. In order to produce a good sinter special care
needs to be taken in order to assure it has a good permeability and
reducibility and it is able to retain these properties for a certain time. If
the sinter starts to melt down early in the upper part of the blast furnace,
where its solid state reduction is essential, permeability decreases, the gas
channels get blocked, reductibility diminishes and serious problems may also
follow. Among the factors that influences the above mentioned sinter
properties are the oxygen potential and fluxing components. Nevertheless,
their effect on the phase relations during sintering and sinter reduction
conditions has not yet entirely clarified and confusion exists in literature.
This quantification becomes even more important today where many new minor
components such as Al2O3 and MgO enter the sinter through raw materials. This
work quantifies the effect of oxygen potential and fluxing components such as
alumina and magnesia on the liquidus and phase relations of the sinter
primary melts in the iron rich portion of CaO-FeO-Fe2O3-SiO2 system at
sintering conditions. This is carried out by the means of new type of
industrial diagrams in the form of Fe/CaO vs. SiO2 that can directly help the
optimization of the sintering processes.
„Flax specialists”-weed species extinct in Poland?
Authors: Heller Krzysztof
Published: November 2010

„Flax specialists”-weed species extinct in Poland?

The results of a research on segetal weed communities in fibre flax in Poland are presented, with respect to different regions of cultivation, and changes in the level of infestation during the past forty years. Observations on composition and abundance of weed infestations were made in fields in six experimental farms at the Institute of Natural Fibres and Medicinal Plants. The observations conducted in the period 1967-2008 did not show the occurrence of weed species from the group of so-called "flax specialists": Lolium remotum Schrank, Spergula arvensis L. subsp. maxima (Weiche) O. Schwarz, Camelina alyssum (Mill.) Thell. and Cuscuta epilinum Weihe Ex Boenn. In Poland, weed populations in fibre flax consist of species typical for cereals and root crops: Chenopodium album L., Polygonum convolvulus L., Viola arvensis Murr., Stellaria media Vill., Lamium amplexicaule L., Thlaspi arvense L., Elymus repens (L.) Gould, and Polygonum nodosum Pers.
Chemical diversity of silverweed (Potentilla anserinal L.) growing at the edges of arable fields
Authors: Angielczyk Mirosław , Bączek Katarzyna , Geszprych Anna , Przybył Jarosław , Węglarz Zenon
Published: November 2010

Chemical diversity of silverweed (Potentilla anserinal L.) growing at the edges of arable fields

The medicinal usage of silverweed herb (Anserinae herba) is primarily related to the presence of phenolic compounds. Three populations of silverweed (Potentilla anserina L.) occurring at the edges of arable fields in Podlasie area (north-eastern Poland) were compared in respect of the content and composition of phenolics. Herb collected from the investigated populations differed in the content of determined compounds. The tannin content was very low (0.81-0.91%). The total flavonoid content ranged from 0.48 to 0.60%. Phenolic acid content was much higher (1.38-2.26%). Three flavan-3-ols: (+)-catechin, (-)-epicatechin, and (-)-epigallocatechin, four flavonol glycosides: rutoside, quercetin-3-O-glucoside, isorhamnetin-3-O-glucoside, and kaempferol-3-O-glucoside, as well as one phenolic acid (ellagic acid) were identified as a result of HPLC analysis of methan-olic extracts from the investigated raw materials. The most considerable differences between populations concerned the content of (+)-catechin (87.0-199.3 mg x 100 g-1), (-)-epigallocatechin (141.9-290.6 mg x 100 g-1), and rutoside (192.3-386.0 mg x 100 g-4) in herb.
Therapeutic plants found in agrocenoses of the middle Vistula River Valley mesoregion
Authors: Ługowska Maria , Skrzyczyńska Janina , Skrajna Teresa
Published: November 2010

Therapeutic plants found in agrocenoses of the middle Vistula River Valley mesoregion

Studies on the segetal flora of the Middle Vistula River Valley mesoregion were carried out between 2003 and 2006 in cereal and potato crops and in stubble fields (117 localities). A total of 184 medicinal vascular plant species were noted in the studied agrocenoses. Native plants (68%) dominated over species brought to Poland (32%). Hemicryptophytes (83 spp.), therophytes (74 spp.) and geophytes (26 spp.) were the most numerous groups of life forms. Perennials (55%) prevailed over short-lived plants (45%). Very rare and rare species (61%) built up the most numerous group of species. Their populations usually consisted of single specimens. Only a few of the medicinal plant species occured as larger populations. They were Aphanes arvensis, Stellaria media and Galium aparine in cereals, Equisetum arvense, Stellaria media, Chenopodium album, Elymus repens, Plantago major, Polygonum amphibium, Mentha arvensis, Plantago intermedia, Polygonum hydropiper and Gypsophila muralis in stubble fields, as well as Stellaria media in potato cultivations.
Nonlinear response of a harmonically driven oscillator in magnetic field
Authors: Przybyłowicz Piotr , Szmidt Tomasz
Published: November 2010

Nonlinear response of a harmonically driven oscillator in magnetic field

The paper presents analysis of nonlinear response of a classical mechanical oscillator placed within a magnetic field and driven by a harmonic force. With an appropriate choice of control parameters, the system vibrates chaotically between different equilibrium positions. To prove this result, Lyapunov exponents have been calculated using the algorithm proposed by Rangarajan G., Habib S. and Ryne R. [18]. Moreover, the appropriate time series, phase portrait, Poincaré cross-section and power spectrum are given to support the conclusion.
Evaluation of the Shunt Active Power Filter apparent power ratio using particle swarm optimization
Authors: Kouzou A. , Mahmoudi M. , Boucherit M.
Published: November 2010

Evaluation of the Shunt Active Power Filter apparent power ratio using particle swarm optimization

The main objective of this present paper is the study of the Shunt Active Power Filter (APF) compensations capability for different perturbations in AC power system such as current unbalance, phase shift current and undesired harmonics generated by nonlinear load and/or by the power system voltage. This capability is determined by the maximum rate of the apparent power that can be delivered. This study is based on the definition of the effective apparent power as defined in IEEE 1459-2000 which was proved to be the suitable amount to be concerned in the design process of different devices.
Robust control and modal analysis of flexible rotor magnetic bearings system
Authors: Mystkowski Arkadiusz
Published: November 2010

Robust control and modal analysis of flexible rotor magnetic bearings system
Reachability of linear hybrid systems described by the general model
Authors: Kaczorek Tadeusz , Rogowski Krzysztof
Published: November 2010

Reachability of linear hybrid systems described by the general model

The reachability of standard and positive hybrid linear systems described by the general model is addressed. Necessary and sufficient conditions for the reachability of the standard general model are established. Sufficient condition is given for the reachability of positive hybrid system described by the general model. The considerations are illustrated by numerical examples.
Backstepping/DTC control of a double star synchronous machine drive
Authors: Boudana D. , Nezli L. , Tlemçani A. , Mahmoudi M. , Djemai M. , Tadjine M.
Published: November 2010

Backstepping/DTC control of a double star synchronous machine drive

Direct torque control (DTC) allows for very high quality torque control without a need for current controllers tuning or using coordinate transformation. However, barge torque ripples arise as well as inconstant inverter switching frequency due to the hysteresis of comparators. This paper present a backstepping/DTC control based on the space vector modulation (SVPWM) for double star synchronous machine (DSSM) to reduce the torque, flux, current and speed pulsations during steady state. By the coordinate transformation the DSSM models are presented in view of control. Then a conventional DTC is developed to get a decoupled system and a PI controller is designed to control the speed. To improve the static and dynamic control performance of the DSSM, the speed controller is designed using a backstepping/DTC procedure in conjunction with SVPWM. Simulation results with the conventional DTC and proposed backstepping/DTC are presented and compared. Results show the effectiveness and the robustness of the approach proposed.
Phospholipase C Beta 1 Expression in the Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex from Patients with Schizophrenia at Different Stages of Illness
Authors: Udawela Madhara , Scarr Elizabeth , Hannan Anthony J. , Thomas Elizabeth A. , Dean Brian
Published: November 2010

Objective: Our recent microarray study detected decreases in the expression of phospholipase C beta 1 mRNA in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex from subjects with schizophrenia at different stages of illness. Thus we aimed to validate and extend these findings.

Method: We measured levels of mRNA and protein for phospholipase C beta 1 variant a and b using real-time PCR and western blot analysis, respectively, in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex from subjects with schizophrenia, who had a short (< 7 years) or long (> 22 years) duration of illness.

Results: Compared to age/sex matched controls, levels of phospholipase C beta 1 variant a and b mRNAs were decreased (−33% and −50%, respectively) in short duration schizophrenia. By contrast, only variant a mRNA was decreased (−24%) in long duration schizophrenia. There was no significant difference in the protein levels of either phospholipase C beta 1 variant in schizophrenia, irrespective of duration of illness (variant a; P = 0.84, variant b; P = 0.73).

Conclusion: Our data confirm that phospholipase C beta 1 transcript levels are decreased in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex from subjects with schizophrenia. However, the changes in levels of mRNA do not translate into a change at the level of protein. It is possible protein expression is regulated independently of mRNA and it remains to be determined whether there is a functional consequence of this change in mRNA relating to the pathophysiology of schizophrenia.
Life-Cycle Assessment of Reconstruction Options for Interstate Highway Pavement in Seattle, Washington
Authors: Weiland Craig , Muench Stephen T.
Published: November 2010

Life-cycle assessment (LCA) is a tool that can be used to identify the environmental impact of a product or process. This paper compares three replacement options for an aging portland cement concrete (PCC) pavement with the use of an LCA process-based protocol. The options are to remove and replace the aging pavement with PCC pavement; remove the aging pavement and replace it with hot-mix asphalt (HMA) pavement; and crack and seat the existing pavement and then place an HMA overlay. Each option investigated includes a detailed construction and rehabilitation schedule and is analyzed over 50 years. The results show that materials production (e.g., cement, asphalt, PCC, and HMA) dominates the energy use, emissions, and impacts for all three options. In general, HMA production tends to cause the HMA option to have the highest energy use, whereas cement production tends to cause the PCC option to have the highest global warming potential (GWP). The crack, seat, and overlay option was the lowest energy user, had the lowest GWP, and produced the least emissions in more categories measured than the other two options. This may become a strong argument for expansion of the crack, seat, and overlay method of rehabilitation.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Effect of Climate in Mechanistic–Empirical Pavement Design GuidePredictions
Authors: Johanneck Luke , Khazanovich Lev
Published: November 2010

Climatic and environmental conditions have significant effects on pavement performance but have been inadequately considered in previous design methods. The Mechanistic–Empirical Pavement Design Guide (MEPDG) accounts for these effects through the use of the enhanced integrated climatic model. The present study examined the effects of climate on pavement performance predictions and the effects of climatic file generation by using MEPDG. The paper details the effort required to compare performance predictions for composite pavement consisting of asphalt cement over portland cement concrete (PCC) for 610 locations across the United States, with the use of MEPDG, Version 1.0. Analysis of the results was performed at the national, regional, and local levels. Although in general the results agree with the anticipated trends of environmental effects on pavement performance, the prediction of performance according to the predicted transverse cracking in the PCC layer was found to contain inconsistencies. These inconsistencies are attributed to the quality of the climatic data. The paper concludes that the MEPDG climatic database should be cleansed of incomplete or questionable climatic data files to ensure reliable performance prediction.
Framework for Design Guideline for Expanded Polystyrene Block Geofoam in Slope Stabilization and Repair
Authors: Arellano David , Tatum John Benjamin , Stark Timothy D. , Horvath John S. , Leshchinsky Dov
Published: November 2010

This paper presents the framework for the interim design guideline for the use of expanded polystyrene (EPS) block geofoam for slope stabilization and repair, based on the findings of the NCHRP Project 24-11(02) Phase I study. The overall objective of this research is to develop a design guideline as well as an appropriate material and construction standard for the use of EPS block geofoam for the function of lightweight fill in slope stability applications. The recommended design methodology included in the framework is based on an assessment of the existing technology and literature. The Phase II work will refine the interim design guideline framework and address some uncertainties in the current state of the practice of analyzing various failure mechanisms included in the design procedure. The completed research will consist of the following five primary research products: (a) a summary of the relevant engineering properties, (b) a comprehensive design guideline, (c) a material and construction standard, (d) economic data, and (e) a detailed numerical example. No formal design guidelines on the use of any type of lightweight fill for slope stabilization by reducing the driving forces are available. Therefore, the proposed interim design guideline for EPS block geofoam can serve as a blueprint for the use of other types of lightweight fills in slope stability applications. The NCHRP Project 24-11(01) and the Project 24-11(02) Phase I research confirmed that EPS block geofoam is a unique lightweight fill material and can provide a safe and economical solution for slope stabilization and repair.
Nuclear Energy
Authors: Wilson Peter D.
Published: November 2010

The technical principles and practices of the civil nuclear industry are described with particular reference to fission and its products, natural and artificial radioactivity, elements principally concerned and their relationships, main types of reactor, safety issues, the fuel cycle, waste management, issues related to weapon proliferation, environmental considerations and possible future developments.
Utilization of maternal health care services in slum areas of Dhaka city, Bangladesh
Authors: Begum Housne Ara , Nili Nilufar Yeasmin , Sayem Amir Mohammad
Published: November 2010

Bangladesh has one of the highest maternal mortality rates (MMR) in the world. The estimated lifetime risk of dying from pregnancy and childbirth related causes in Bangladesh is about 100 times higher compare to developed countries. However, utilization of maternal health care services (MHCS) is notably low. This study examines the socio-economic determinants of utilization of MHCS in some slum areas of Dhaka city. The overall utilization was 86.3% of women; however, utilization of different sorts of MHCS was very low, i.e., the mean utilization was found to be 2.25 out of 5 MHCS. Indicator wise, ANC, TT, institutional delivery, delivery assistance by health professional and PNC were received by 61.3%, 80.4%, 12.6%, 33.2% and 55.4% of women respectively. Variation was observed with different socio-economic variables. Multiple regression model could explain 38% of variance (P<0.001). Among the significant determinants, order of last birth negatively explained the most variance (15.2%). Similarly, distance between home and clinic was found to affect the utilization negatively. Besides, some respondents’ socio economic variables had a significant positive effect on MHCS utilization. To reduce maternal mortality in disadvantaged women in slum areas, this study might suggest a few pointers while considering formulation of policies and planning. Keywords: determinants; utilization; maternal health care; service; slum areas DOI: 10.3329/imcj.v4i2.6495Ibrahim Med. Coll. J. 2010; 4(2): 44-48
Anthropometric profile of the urban senior citizens
Authors: Rahman Md Anisur , Moni Monira Akhter , Ahmed Kamal , Islam Md Shafiqul , Haque Md Abidul
Published: November 2010

This cross-sectional study was carried out from January to June 2006 to find out the anthropometric profile of the urban seniors living in three selected areas (Nakhal Para, Badda and Mirpur) of Dhaka city. A total of 317 individuals of both sexes aged 60 years and above were recruited by convenient sampling. Data were collected by a pre-tested questionnaire and a check list. Mean body mass index, waist circumference and waist to hip ratio were 17.8 ± 4.0, 75.5 ± 12.5 cm and 0.87 ± 0.12, respectively. Although only 3% elderly were obese, substantial proportion of the sample were overweight. Females were more prone to health risks than male. Measures should be taken to create awareness amongst these populations for controlling their health risk. Key words: Anthropometry; elderly; Body Mass Index (BMI); Waist Circumference (WC); Waist to Hip Ratio (WHR) DOI: 10.3329/imcj.v4i2.6497Ibrahim Med. Coll. J. 2010; 4(2): 59-62
Bacterial profile and their antimicrobial resistance pattern in an intensive care unit of a tertiary care hospital of Dhaka
Authors: Barai Lovely , Fatema Kaniz , Haq J Ashraful , Faruq Mohammad Omar , Ahsan ASM Areef , Morshed Md Abu Hana Golam , Hossain Md Belayet
Published: November 2010

Critically ill patients admitted in intensive care units (ICU) are always at a higher risk of developing infections with various antibiotic resistant organisms. The objective of this study was to know the antibiotic resistance pattern of the common isolates from blood, urine, respiratory secretions and pus/wound swab of patients admitted in ICU at BIRDEM (Bangladesh Institute of Research and Rehabilitation in Diabetes, Endocrine and Metabolic Disorder) hospital, during a one year period from March 2006 to February 2007. A total of 1660 samples were analyzed. Growth was obtained in 34% of the samples yielding 632 organisms. The major organism isolated were Pseudomonas sp. (29.1%), Acinetobacter sp. (27.5%), Candida sp. (12.8%), Escherichia coli (10.3%) and Klebsiella sp. (9.7%). Staphylococcus aureus, Enterobacter sp, Citrobacter sp, Enterococcus sp, Providencia sp and Serratia sp accounted for 10.6% of the isolates. All the isolates were highly resistant (>80%) to cephalosporins and fluoroquinolones. The frequency of third generation cephalosporin resistant E. coli, Klebsiella and imipenem resistant Pseudomonas and Acinetobacter were >50%. Acinetobacter was remarkably resistant to most antibiotics including imipenem (>70% resistant), but most of the members of the Enterobacteriacae group showed maximum sensitivity to imipenem (50%-94%). The findings of this study might help clinicians to formulate their first line empirical antibiotic treatment regimens for the patients admitted in ICUs. Key words: Intensive care units; antimicrobial resistance pattern; bacterial profile. DOI: 10.3329/imcj.v4i2.6499Ibrahim Med. Coll. J. 2010; 4(2): 66-69
Dietary intake, physical activities and nutritional status of adolescent girls in an urban population of Bangladesh
Authors: Kurshed Ali Abbas Mohammad , Rana Md Masud , Khan Sabina , Azad TM Alamgir , Begum Jamila , Bhuyan Md Aminul Haque
Published: November 2010

In Bangladesh, under-nutrition is a common health problem, but for socio-cultural background, it is most predominant among the female population starting from their early life to motherhood. For the adolescent girls, there has been no such study though they will be the future mothers. Therefore, this study is designed to address the lifestyle and nutrition of the Bangladeshi female adolescents. The study was conducted purposively in Dhaka selecting randomly 15 of 95 City corporation wards of Dhaka City. All adolescent girls aged 10–18 years were considered eligible participants of an urban population of Bangladesh. The study included socio-demographic information, clinical examination, dietary intake, physical activities and body mass index (BMI = weight in kg / height in m. sq.). Overall, 352 adolescent girls volunteered. Socio-economically, 51% of them had monthly family income ≥20,000 BDT and 11.4% had <10,000 BDT. Of the participants, 14.8% had BMI <18.5, 80.7% had 18.5 – 24.9, and 4.6% had ≥25. BMI was found not to have significant association with physical activities. No clinical signs of vitamin A deficiency were observed. On clinical examination 75% of the participants were found healthy, 15.9% had anemia and 5.7% had diarrhea. Compared with the national dietary intake, the cereal intake was lower but protein containing foods like pulse and nuts, meat, egg, fish, milk and milk products were found very much close to the national intake. On the average, 95 % of calorie, 93.5 % of protein and 96.5 % of fat requirement were met. For micronutrient requirement, very low intake was observed with calcium (62 %) and iron (63 %). In conclusion, the participants consumed rice daily with frequent consumption of vegetables. Although the study subjects were mostly from higher class of urban dwellers their dietary intake was found not healthy as evidenced by daily rice intake and very low intake of fruits, calcium and iron indicating lack of awareness regarding food habit. Further study is needed to confirm the study findings and to initiate health education on diet among the Bangladeshi adolescent girls. DOI: 10.3329/imcj.v4i2.6502Ibrahim Med. Coll. J. 2010; 4(2): 78-82
A prophylactic amputation
Authors: Afsana Faria , Ahmed Tofail , Mahtab Hajera
Published: November 2010

A case of amputation of the fourth toe is described in a diabetic patient. The patient had overlapping of third and fourth toes since her childhood and later she developed soft lipomas over the fourth toe and lateral aspect of the dorsum of the foot. The lipomas were excised without relief of pain. Subsequently, the fourth toe was disarticulated with relief of pain and healing of ulcers. The role of prophylactic amputations in such cases is described. Key words: Diabetes; amputation; ulcer. DOI: 10.3329/imcj.v4i2.6504Ibrahim Med. Coll. J. 2010; 4(2): 87-89